Probably the most important question facing new Chicago Bears general manager Phil Emery is what to do with Matt Forte. The star running back and 2008 second-round pick is scheduled to hit unrestricted free agency when the new league year begins March 13.
The obvious answer is that the Bears absolutely have to pay the man. The offense cratered when he went down with a knee injury against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 13. Neither Marion Barber III nor Kahlil Bell, individual or collectively, could replace his production either as a runner or a receiver. The Bears' offensive line, justifiably much-maligned in recent years, is not good enough that just any running back can be productive behind it. He's also a valuable and prolific receiving option, with 50 or more catches every year of his career. Obviously, the Bears have to pay the man.
Then again, Forte wasn't the only reason the Bears offense cratered at the end of the year. After all, quarterback Jay Cutler also mis...
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