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The arrival of Marc Trestman as head coach of the Chicago Bears definitely agreed with Matt Forte in 2013, as he set career-highs in rushing yards (1,339), rushing touchdowns (nine), receptions (74) and receiving yards (594). Perhaps most importantly, he played all 16 games after missing five games in 2011 and 2012 combined.
Positives
Forte is a prominent part of the Bears’ offense as a dual threat, and the addition of Ka’Deem Carey in this month’s draft will not threaten his role as the team’s clear-cut No. 1 running back. Michael Bush’s role as a touchdown vulture never really materialized last season, but his departure in free agency removes him as a potential factor for 2014.
The Bears have two very good wide receivers (Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery) and a solid tight end in Martellus Bennett, so defenses will not be able to put any special focus on stopping Forte.
Negatives
Forte will turn 29 in December, and he is getting close to 2,000 touches (1,892) in his career. It’s worth noting that his 1,551 career carries is fairly low compared to other backs that are near his age (Adrian Peterson, Marshawn Lynch, etc.) and Forte’s prowess as a pass catcher should allow him to stay productive, but being so close to 30 brings risk for a steep decline soon.
Quarterback Jay Cutler has a fairly aggressive playing style, so if he can stay healthy for all 16 games in 2014 Forte may see a decline in touches all the way around.
Final Verdict
Once the top few running backs (Jamaal Charles, LeSean McCoy, Peterson) are gone, Forte will quickly be among the top available players at any position in fantasy drafts and auctions. That makes him a sure-fire first round pick in traditional drafts, and obviously expensive in auctions for those that want him. But I’d still take Forte as my RB1, particularly in PPR leagues, over similarly ranked options like Lynch, Eddie Lacy and Doug Martin.
Bye Week: Week 9
Projected Round: First Round
Auction Value: $54 (via ESPN.com)
