Bears Sign Michael Bush

Added on Mar 22, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

If Chicago was trying to send a message to franchised running back Matt Forte, then it’s save to say the message was received. The Bears added insurance in their thin backfield today by signing free agent runner Michael Bush to a four-year contract reportedly worth $17 million. It’s a smart move by the front office, but it certainly did nothing to improve the strained relationship with their Pro Bowl back.

Forte has been searching for a long-term contract since last summer, but negotiations have repeatedly stalled. The decision to tag Forte didn’t sit well with him and the addition of Bush only made his blood boil more. To help vent his frustrations, he did what athletes do nowadays and took to Twitter.

“There’s only so many times a man that has done everything he’s been asked to do can be disrespected! “Guess the GOOD GUYS do finish last …”

Unlike Marion Barber in 2011 and Chester Taylor in 2010, Bush is capable of carrying the full load should Forte be unavailable, for whatever reason. While filling in for Darren McFadden in Oakland last season, the 27-year old set career highs in rushing yards with 977 and receiving yards with 418.

Of course this begs the question, why are the Bears inking backups instead of extending their starter? Forte has been a one-man gang the last two seasons with a combined 543 touches for 3103 yards and 13 touchdowns. He’s one of the best dual-threat runners in the league. If anyone has earned a lucrative deal, it’s him.

Head coach Lovie Smith has brushed off the assumed friction and expressed confidence the matter will resolve itself in time.

“Matt is going to play his football for the Chicago Bears, you start with that,” coach Lovie Smith said at the NFL scouting combine. “In time, hopefully we can get an agreement in place that suits Matt, and we feel comfortable with. I think it’s just a matter of time. That will happen eventually.”

It’s likely Forte is seeking a deal similar to the one signed by Houston’s Arian Foster earlier this month, worth $43 million over five years.

Source: ESPN.com