Matt Forte

Forte grew up in Slidell, Louisiana, and graduated from Slidell High School in 2004, where he was a letterman in football and track & field.{{Cite web |last=Nunez |first=Tammy |date=June 10, 2012 |title=Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte returns to Slidell to teach kids football, help purchase gear |url=http://www.nola.com/sports/index.ssf/2012/06/bears_running_back_matt_forte.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190103055949/https://www.nola.com/sports/index.ssf/2012/06/bears_running_back_matt_forte.html |archive-date=January 3, 2019 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=NOLA.com |language=en-US}} As a junior, he rushed for 1,057 rushing yards with eight rushing touchdowns, and caught 30 passes for 365 yards and three receiving touchdowns. As a senior, he was named the St. Tammany Parish Player of the Year, District 5-5A Offensive MVP and received All-Metro selection accolades, as he gained 1,375 yards with 23 touchdowns and caught 18 passes for 253 yards and two receiving touchdowns. He totaled 2,432 rushing yards and 31 rushing touchdowns in his career, while also catching 48 passes for 618 receiving yards and five receiving touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte Biography |url=http://www.tulanegreenwave.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/forte_matt01.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141026080836/http://www.tulanegreenwave.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/forte_matt01.html |archive-date=October 26, 2014 |access-date=October 15, 2014 |website=Tulane Green Wave Athletics}}

As a standout sprinter, Forte competed in track and had some of the better 100m and 200m times in the New Orleans area in 2003, with personal-bests of 10.68 seconds in the 100 meters and 22.10 seconds in the 200 meters.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte |url=http://chi.scout.com/a.z?s=25&p=8&c=1&nid=1390087 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141020174432/http://chi.scout.com/a.z?s=25&p=8&c=1&nid=1390087 |archive-date=October 20, 2014 |website=Scout.com – Chicago}}

{{College athlete recruit start|40=yes|collapse=|year=2004}}

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Forte played NCAA Division I college football at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana, a member of Conference USA.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte College Stats |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/matt-forte-1.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303111108/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/matt-forte-1.html |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} He played from 2004 to 2006 under head coach Chris Scelfo and in 2007 under Bob Toledo.{{Cite web |title=Tulane Green Wave Coaches |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115201513/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/ |archive-date=January 15, 2021 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}

{{See also|2004 Tulane Green Wave football team}}

As a freshman, Forte split a bulk of the carries with junior Jovon Jackson.{{Cite web |title=2004 Tulane Green Wave Stats |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2004.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201117050105/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2004.html |archive-date=November 17, 2020 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} On October 23, against UAB, he scored his first collegiate touchdown on a six-yard rush in the 59–55 victory.{{Cite web |title=UAB at Tulane Box Score, October 23, 2004 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-10-23-tulane.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171110061746/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-10-23-tulane.html |archive-date=November 10, 2017 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} His major breakout game came against Army on November 13. In the 45–31 victory, he totaled 34 carries for 216 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns to go along with three receptions for 67 receiving yards and a receiving touchdown.{{Cite web |title=Army at Tulane Box Score, November 13, 2004 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-11-13-tulane.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722235614/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-11-13-tulane.html |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} He had 624 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns to go along with 20 receptions for 180 yards and two receiving touchdowns during Tulane's 5–6 season.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2004 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/matt-forte-1/gamelog/2004/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303105952/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/matt-forte-1/gamelog/2004/ |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=2004 Tulane Green Wave Schedule and Results |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2004-schedule.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170623034320/http://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2004-schedule.html |archive-date=June 23, 2017 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}

{{see also|2005 Tulane Green Wave football team}}

As a sophomore, Forte continued to share the backfield with Jovon Jackson. However, Forte got a majority of the carries for the season.{{Cite web |title=2005 Tulane Green Wave Stats |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2005.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204062737/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2005.html |archive-date=February 4, 2021 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} He crossed the 100-yard rushing mark once in 2005, against Southern Miss on November 26.{{Cite web |title=Tulane at Southern Mississippi Box Score, November 26, 2005 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2005-11-26-southern-mississippi.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190509050234/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2005-11-26-southern-mississippi.html |archive-date=May 9, 2019 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} Overall, he had 169 carries for 655 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns to go along with 23 receptions for 163 yards and one receiving touchdown during Tulane's tumultuous 2–9 season, which saw the Green Wave forced to play all of their games on the road and at neutral sites due to Hurricane Katrina.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2005 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/matt-forte-1/gamelog/2005/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110722/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/matt-forte-1/gamelog/2005/ |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Katrina always in mind's eye |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2008-05-02-0805020075-story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627024809/https://www.chicagotribune.com/ |archive-date=June 27, 2022 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Chicago Tribune |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=2005 Tulane Green Wave Schedule and Results |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2005-schedule.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170623034328/http://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2005-schedule.html |archive-date=June 23, 2017 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}

{{see also|2006 Tulane Green Wave football team}}

Forte started his junior season in the lead role in the backfield. He got a majority of the carries, sharing the bulk of the total rushing attack with Ray Boudreaux and Ade Tuyo after going down to injury in early November.{{Cite web |title=2006 Tulane Green Wave Stats |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2006.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421063909/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2006.html |archive-date=April 21, 2021 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} In the Green Wave's second game of the season, he had 29 carries for 170 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown in a victory over Mississippi State.{{Cite web |title=Tulane at Mississippi State Box Score, September 16, 2006 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-09-16-mississippi-state.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722133553/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-09-16-mississippi-state.html |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} Starting on October 7 against Rice, Forte totaled four consecutive games going over the 100-rushing yard mark. He scored six total touchdowns in the span, which had victories over Rice and Army but losses to UTEP and Auburn.{{Cite web |title=Rice at Tulane Box Score, October 7, 2006 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-10-07-tulane.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722170208/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-10-07-tulane.html |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Tulane at UTEP Box Score, October 14, 2006 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-10-14-texas-el-paso.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903121425/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-10-14-texas-el-paso.html |archive-date=September 3, 2017 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Tulane at Auburn Box Score, October 21, 2006 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-10-21-auburn.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722204346/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-10-21-auburn.html |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Army at Tulane Box Score, October 28, 2006 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-10-28-tulane.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722133551/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-10-28-tulane.html |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} His junior year was cut short when he suffered an injury in the game against Marshall on November 4.{{Cite web |title=Marshall Rolls Over Tulane, 42–21 |url=https://247sports.com/college/marshall/Article/Marshall-Rolls-Over-Tulane-42-21-104370476/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621020158/https://247sports.com/college/marshall/Article/Marshall-Rolls-Over-Tulane-42-21-104370476/ |archive-date=June 21, 2022 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Marshall247 |language=en-US}} He finished his junior season with 859 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns to go along with 28 receptions for 360 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns during Tulane's 4–8 season.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2006 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/matt-forte-1/gamelog/2006/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303111039/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/matt-forte-1/gamelog/2006/ |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=2006 Tulane Green Wave Schedule and Results |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2006-schedule.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170623033404/http://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2006-schedule.html |archive-date=June 23, 2017 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}

{{see also|2007 Tulane Green Wave football team}}

File:Tulane vs. Memphis (1832927305) (cropped).jpg in 2007]]

Forte returned from his injury to have a standout season under new head coach Bob Toledo.{{Cite web |date=December 11, 2006 |title=Former UCLA coach Toledo takes over Tulane program |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=2693869 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201016194554/https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=2693869 |archive-date=October 16, 2020 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} He got a wide majority of the Green Wave offense's total carries in their 4–8 season.{{Cite web |title=2007 Tulane Green Wave Schedule and Results |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2007-schedule.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170615194832/http://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2007-schedule.html |archive-date=June 15, 2017 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=2007 Tulane Green Wave Stats |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2007.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621020412/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tulane/2007.html |archive-date=June 21, 2022 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} Forte set several Tulane school records, including rushing for 2,127 rushing yards and 23 rushing touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2007 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/matt-forte-1/gamelog/2007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303111111/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/matt-forte-1/gamelog/2007/ |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} He had five games with at least 200 rushing yards games, two games with at least 300 rushing yards games, and three games with at least four rushing touchdowns during the 2007 season.{{Cite web |title=Southeastern Louisiana at Tulane Box Score, September 22, 2007 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-09-22-tulane.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303111047/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-09-22-tulane.html |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Tulane at Army Box Score, October 6, 2007 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-10-06-army.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303111102/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-10-06-army.html |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Tulane at Alabama-Birmingham Box Score, October 13, 2007 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-10-13-alabama-birmingham.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303111054/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-10-13-alabama-birmingham.html |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Tulane at Southern Methodist Box Score, October 20, 2007 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-10-20-southern-methodist.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110520/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-10-20-southern-methodist.html |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Memphis at Tulane Box Score, October 27, 2007 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-10-27-tulane.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621020203/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-10-27-tulane.html |archive-date=June 21, 2022 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Tulane at Rice Box Score, November 17, 2007 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-11-17-rice.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110802/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2007-11-17-rice.html |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} He finished second in the NCAA in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns in 2007, trailing only Kevin Smith of Central Florida.{{Cite web |title=2007 Leaders |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/years/2007-leaders.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200218204658/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/years/2007-leaders.html |archive-date=February 18, 2020 |access-date=January 3, 2021 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} Forte was the only BCS non-AQ conference athlete to be a semifinalist for both the Maxwell and Doak Walker Awards and to make the Walter Camp Player of the Year List, and one of just three players nationally to be named to all three lists.{{Cite web |date=November 8, 2007 |title=Football's Matt Forté Named Maxwell Award Semifinalist |url=https://tulanegreenwave.com/news/2007/11/8/Football_s_Matt_Fort_amp_eacute_Named_Maxwell_Award_Semifinalist.aspx?path=football |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112193759/https://tulanegreenwave.com/news/2007/11/8/Football_s_Matt_Fort_amp_eacute_Named_Maxwell_Award_Semifinalist.aspx?path=football |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Tulane University Athletics |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=November 7, 2014 |title=Doak Walker Award Semifinalists |url=https://arkansasrazorbacks.com/mcfadden_jones_named_doak_walker_award_semifinalists_1311452/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112194116/https://arkansasrazorbacks.com/mcfadden_jones_named_doak_walker_award_semifinalists_1311452/ |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Arkansas Razorbacks |language=en-US}}

Forte garnered the most attention at the 2008 Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama, and walked away with the Overall MVP award.{{Cite web |title=Game Scores/MVPs : Game History : The Game : Reese's Senior Bowl |url=https://www.seniorbowl.com/game-history-gamescores.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303105807/https://www.seniorbowl.com/game-history-gamescores.php |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=SeniorBowl.com |language=en}} He led with 59 yards rushing on eight carries; four receptions for 38 yards and a tackle on special teams.

• Conference USA All-Freshman (2004)
• 2× All-Conference USA (2005, 2007)
• Third-team AP All-American (2007){{Cite web |date=December 11, 2007 |title=AP announces All-American football team |url=https://www.heraldnet.com/sports/ap-announces-all-american-football-team/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20220627025018/https://www.heraldnet.com/sports/ap-announces-all-american-football-team/ |archive-date=June 27, 2022 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=HeraldNet.com |language=en-US |agency=Associated Press}}
• Doak Walker Award semifinalist (2007)
• Maxwell Award semifinalist (2007)
• Senior Bowl MVP (2008)

{{NFL predraft

| height ft = 6

| height in = 1 3/8

| weight = 217

| dash = 4.46

| ten split = 1.49

| twenty split = 2.55

| shuttle = 4.23

| cone drill = 6.84

| vertical = 33

| broad ft = 9

| broad in = 10

| bench = 23

| wonderlic = 18

| arm span =

| hand span =

| note = All values from the 2008 NFL Combine{{Cite web |title=2008 NFL Combine Stats: Running Backs |url=http://www.footballsfuture.com/2008/combineRB.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090926213904/http://www.footballsfuture.com/2008/combineRB.html |archive-date=September 26, 2009 |access-date=September 17, 2009 |website=footballsfuture.com}}

}}

{{see also|2008 Chicago Bears season}}

The Chicago Bears selected Forte in the second round of the 2008 NFL draft as the 44th overall selection, the sixth running back taken that year.{{Cite web |title=2008 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2008/draft.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181103014038/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2008/draft.htm |archive-date=November 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was originally drafted to compete with Cedric Benson for the team's starting running back position. However, Benson was released from the Bears after legal complications, and Forte out-competed Adrian Peterson and second-year running back Garrett Wolfe and started all 16 games.{{Cite web |last=Clayton |first=John |date=June 9, 2008 |title=Bears waive tailback Benson after latest arrest |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3434053 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112043207/https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3434053 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} In the regular season debut on September 7, 2008, against the Indianapolis Colts, he carried the ball 23 times for 123 yards (setting a franchise record for most debut rushing yards) and scored his first career touchdown on a 50-yard run en route to a 29–13 victory over the Colts.{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Indianapolis Colts – September 7th, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200809070clt.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180212083607/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200809070clt.htm |archive-date=February 12, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

File:BearsPanthers.jpg while playing against the Carolina Panthers in September 2008]]

He had two more 100+ yard rushing games on the season, once against the Detroit Lions and the other against the St. Louis Rams.{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions – October 5th, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200810050det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306060021/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200810050det.htm |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at St. Louis Rams – November 23rd, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200811230ram.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201102233701/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200811230ram.htm |archive-date=November 2, 2020 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In Week 13, against the Minnesota Vikings, he became the first Bears rookie to rush for over 1,000 yards since Anthony Thomas in 2001.{{Cite web |last=Trowbridge |first=Matt |date=December 8, 2008 |title=Forte more dependable, less flashy than forebears |url=https://www.sentinel-standard.com/article/20081208/NEWS/312089942 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303202735/https://www.sentinel-standard.com/article/20081208/NEWS/312089942 |archive-date=March 3, 2021 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Ionia Sentinel |language=en}} At the time, he finished with franchise rookie records of 316 carries for 1,238 rushing yards. His 1,715 yards from scrimmage was third in the NFL, and broke Hall of Famer Gale Sayers's team record of 1,374 in 1965.{{Cite web |title=2008 NFL Rushing & Receiving |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2008/rushing.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200423132626/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2008/rushing.htm |archive-date=April 23, 2020 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2008 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2008/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303230638/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2008/ |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Forte led all rookie running backs in total yards and receptions,{{Cite web |last=Kalafa |first=Jeff |date=December 12, 2008 |title=Top Rookie Running Backs....Matt Forte, Chris Johnson, Steve Slaton Lead Group |url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/92349-top-rookie-running-backsmatt-forte-chris-johnson-steve-slaton-lead-group |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121008073848/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/92349-top-rookie-running-backsmatt-forte-chris-johnson-steve-slaton-lead-group |archive-date=October 8, 2012 |access-date=January 4, 2009 |website=Bleacher Report}} those 61 receptions also breaking Mike Ditka's 1961 franchise rookie record.{{Cite web |date=November 11, 2020 |title=Rookie receptions in a single season, Chicago Bears |url=https://ctxt.io/2/AAAgW7ZhFA |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111183451/https://ctxt.io/2/AAAgW7ZhFA |archive-date=November 11, 2020 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Context}} He received one vote for the National Football League Rookie of the Year Award, finishing behind Ryan Clady, Chris Johnson, and Matt Ryan.{{Cite web |date=December 30, 2008 |title=Falcons' Ryan named AP's top offensive rookie |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3800047 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108022709/https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3800047 |archive-date=November 8, 2020 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=ESPN.com |language=en |agency=Associated Press}}

{{see also|2009 Chicago Bears season}}

File:Michael Lewis Matt Forte.jpg safety Michael Lewis in a 2009 meeting]]

Forte recorded 150 total rushing yards over the first three games of the season before his first big game in Week 4 against the Detroit Lions, during which he rushed 12 times for 121 yards and scored his first touchdown.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears – October 4th, 2009 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200910040chi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201115074534/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200910040chi.htm |archive-date=November 15, 2020 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

He averaged 50.6 yards per game over the next 11 games with three rushing touchdowns, before a 101-yard finale in the second divisional game against the Detroit Lions in Week 17.{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions – January 3rd, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201001030det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201115080144/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201001030det.htm |archive-date=November 15, 2020 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He finished the 2009 season with 258 carries for 929 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns to go along with 57 receptions for 471 receiving yards.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2009 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2009/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211207163527/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2009/ |archive-date=December 7, 2021 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=2009 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2009/rushing.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224053000/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2009/rushing.htm |archive-date=February 24, 2018 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Despite the decrease in production, Forte dominated the carries in the Bears' backfield for the 2009 season, recording over 200 more attempts than Kahlil Bell.{{Cite web |title=2009 Chicago Bears Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/2009.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127013113/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/2009.htm |archive-date=November 27, 2020 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{see also|2010 Chicago Bears season}}

In the regular season opener, Forte had a career-best 151 receiving yards including two receiving touchdowns, one for 89 yards and one for 28 yards, that put the Bears ahead late in the fourth quarter. In addition, he had 17 carries for 50 yards to give him his first game going over 200 scrimmage yards. He was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week for that performance in the 19–14 victory.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears – September 12th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201009120chi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110001/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201009120chi.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=2010 NFL Week 1 Leaders & Scores |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2010/week_1.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110032/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2010/week_1.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In Week 5 against the Carolina Panthers, Forte had touchdown runs of 18 and 68 yards, the latter a career long, on the way to 166 total rushing yards on the day in the 23–6 victory.{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Carolina Panthers – October 10th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201010100car.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110013/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201010100car.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Forte was named FedEx Ground Player of the Week for this week. In Week 11 at the Miami Dolphins, the season's first Thursday Night Football game, Forte rushed for 97 yards on 25 carries and scored the game's only touchdown on a two-yard run in the fourth quarter as the Bears shutout the Dolphins, 16–0.{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Miami Dolphins – November 18th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201011180mia.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110008/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201011180mia.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Over the last seven games of the season, Forte had at least 90 rushing yards in five of them.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2010 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2010/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220331114249/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2010/ |archive-date=March 31, 2022 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} His 1,616 yards from scrimmage ranked tenth in the NFL.{{Cite web |title=2010 NFL Rushing & Receiving |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2010/rushing.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005203804/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2010/rushing.htm |archive-date=October 5, 2020 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

The Chicago Bears finished with an 11–5 record and made the playoffs.{{Cite web |title=2010 Chicago Bears Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/2010.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303230637/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/2010.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=2010 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2010 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180406035308/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2010/ |archive-date=April 6, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the Divisional Round, Forte recorded 80 yards rushing and 54 yards receiving in a victory over the Seattle Seahawks.{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round – Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears – January 16th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101160chi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170802182840/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101160chi.htm |archive-date=August 2, 2017 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the next round, he became the only player in Bears post-season history with at least ten receptions in the 21–14 loss to the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship.{{Cite web |last=Neveau |first=James |date=February 28, 2018 |title=Forte Facts: 10 Incredible Numbers From a Remarkable Career |url=https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-bears-matt-forte-team-records-nfl-records-remarkable-statistics/2044109/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112191004/https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-bears-matt-forte-team-records-nfl-records-remarkable-statistics/2044109/ |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=NBC Chicago |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=NFC Championship – Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears – January 23rd, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101230chi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115020608/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101230chi.htm |archive-date=November 15, 2017 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{see also|2011 Chicago Bears season}}

Forte began the season primarily in a receiving role. He recorded 68, 49, and two rushing yards in his first three games; but had 90, 117, and 80 receiving yards, respectively.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2011 Game Log (Games 1–3) |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2011/#49-51-sum:stats |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190208224241/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2011/#49-51-sum:stats |archive-date=February 8, 2019 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} This changed in Week 4, when Forte rushed for a career-high 205 yards and one rushing touchdown against the Carolina Panthers, starting a stretch of four 100+ yard rushing performances over the next five games.{{Cite web |title=Carolina Panthers at Chicago Bears – October 2nd, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201110020chi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303225122/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201110020chi.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions – October 10th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201110100det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180108130700/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201110100det.htm |archive-date=January 8, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – October 23rd, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201110230tam.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110109/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201110230tam.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Philadelphia Eagles – November 7th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201111070phi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303105957/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201111070phi.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Through nine games, Forte lead the Bears in rush attempts, rush yards, receptions, and receiving yards;{{Cite web |title=Bears offensive statistics, 2011 Weeks 1–9 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/pgl_finder.cgi?request=1&match=single&year_min=2011&year_max=2011&season_start=1&season_end=-1&pos=0&game_type=R&team_id=chi&career_game_num_min=1&career_game_num_max=400&game_num_min=1&game_num_max=9&week_num_min=0&week_num_max=99&c1stat=rush_att&c1comp=gt&c1val=0&c2stat=rec&c2comp=gt&c2val=0&c3stat=yds_from_scrimmage&c3comp=gt&c3val=1&c5val=1.0&order_by=yds_from_scrimmage |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109074928/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/pgl_finder.cgi?request=1&match=single&year_min=2011&year_max=2011&season_start=1&season_end=-1&pos=0&game_type=R&team_id=chi&career_game_num_min=1&career_game_num_max=400&game_num_min=1&game_num_max=9&week_num_min=0&week_num_max=99&c1stat=rush_att&c1comp=gt&c1val=0&c2stat=rec&c2comp=gt&c2val=0&c3stat=yds_from_scrimmage&c3comp=gt&c3val=1&c5val=1.0&order_by=yds_from_scrimmage |archive-date=November 9, 2017 |access-date=November 5, 2017 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com}} and through Week 8 led the league in yards from scrimmage.{{Cite web |title=NFL offensive statistics, 2011 Weeks 1–8 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/pgl_finder.cgi?request=1&match=single&year_min=2011&year_max=2011&season_start=1&season_end=-1&pos=0&game_type=R&career_game_num_min=1&career_game_num_max=400&game_num_min=1&game_num_max=8&week_num_min=0&week_num_max=99&c1stat=rush_att&c1comp=gt&c1val=0&c2stat=rec&c2comp=gt&c2val=0&c3stat=yds_from_scrimmage&c3comp=gt&c3val=1&c5val=1.0&order_by=yds_from_scrimmage |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181202030116/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/pgl_finder.cgi?request=1&match=single&year_min=2011&year_max=2011&season_start=1&season_end=-1&pos=0&game_type=R&career_game_num_min=1&career_game_num_max=400&game_num_min=1&game_num_max=8&week_num_min=0&week_num_max=99&c1stat=rush_att&c1comp=gt&c1val=0&c2stat=rec&c2comp=gt&c2val=0&c3stat=yds_from_scrimmage&c3comp=gt&c3val=1&c5val=1.0&order_by=yds_from_scrimmage |archive-date=December 2, 2018 |access-date=November 5, 2017 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com}} In a game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Forte joined Herschel Walker as the only players with 700 rushing yards and 400 receiving yards in their first four seasons, and became the only player with 900 rushing yards and 400 receiving yards.{{Cite web |date=July 24, 2012 |title=Forte is excited to rejoin teammates |url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8914 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120728021123/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8914 |archive-date=July 28, 2012 |access-date=August 3, 2012 |website=Chicago Bears}} After three less productive games, Forte sprained his MCL in a loss to the Chiefs, ending his season with 997 rushing yards, three rushing touchdowns, 490 receiving yards, and one receiving touchdown.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2011 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2011/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110018/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2011/ |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Wright |first=Michael C. |last2=Schefter |first2=Adam |date=December 4, 2011 |title=Sources: Bears' Forte has Grade 2 MCL sprain |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7315255/chicago-bears-matt-forte-grade-2-mcl-sprain-sources-say |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108192559/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7315255/chicago-bears-matt-forte-grade-2-mcl-sprain-sources-say |archive-date=November 8, 2020 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} However, he was placed on the NFC team for the 2012 Pro Bowl for the first time in his career, making him the first Bears running back to be named to the Pro Bowl since Neal Anderson in 1991.{{Cite web |date=July 16, 2012 |title=Bears sign Forte to a four-year contract |url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8907 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120720055504/https://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8907 |archive-date=July 20, 2012 |access-date=August 3, 2012 |website=Chicago Bears}}{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=December 27, 2011 |title=Tillman among five voted to Pro Bowl |url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8516 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120616045916/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8516 |archive-date=June 16, 2012 |access-date=July 16, 2012 |website=Chicago Bears}} He was ranked 33rd by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2012.{{Cite web |title=2012 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2012-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211112163739/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2012-nfl-top-100.htm |archive-date=November 12, 2021 |access-date=June 21, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

File:Forte Camp 2009.jpg

{{see also|2012 Chicago Bears season}}

On March 2, 2012, Forte was given the franchise tag by the Bears, worth $7.74 million.{{Cite web |date=March 2, 2012 |title=Bears put franchise tag on Matt Forte |url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8669 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609224626/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8669 |archive-date=June 9, 2012 |access-date=July 16, 2012 |website=Chicago Bears}}{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=June 12, 2012 |title=Matt Forte absent as Chicago Bears open minicamp |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/matt-forte-absent-as-chicago-bears-open-minicamp-09000d5d829c5c6b |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120627103224/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d829c5c6b/article/matt-forte-absent-as-chicago-bears-open-minicamp |archive-date=June 27, 2012 |access-date=July 16, 2012 |website=NFL.com}} However, Forte expressed his frustration and refused to sign the tender, which eventually led to the Bears signing Michael Bush.{{Cite web |last=Alper |first=Josh |date=April 11, 2012 |title=Report: Matt Forte won't sign anything but a long-term deal |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/04/11/report-matt-forte-wont-sign-anything-but-a-long-term-deal/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109072422/https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/04/11/report-matt-forte-wont-sign-anything-but-a-long-term-deal/ |archive-date=November 9, 2020 |access-date=November 9, 2020 |website=ProFootballTalk |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |last=Boren |first=Cindy |date=March 23, 2012 |title=Matt Forte says Bears "disrespected" him with Michael Bush deal |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/early-lead/post/matt-forte-says-bears-disrespected-him-with-michael-bush-deal/2012/03/23/gIQAtpinVS_blog.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225092019/https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/early-lead/post/matt-forte-says-bears-disrespected-him-with-michael-bush-deal/2012/03/23/gIQAtpinVS_blog.html |archive-date=December 25, 2016 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |work=Washington Post |language=en-US}} Forte then held out for a long-term contract,{{Cite web |last=Wright |first=Michael C. |date=July 29, 2011 |title=Source: Bears RB Forte considering holdout |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6814017/matt-forte-chicago-bears-considers-holdout-source-says |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306111650/http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6814017/matt-forte-chicago-bears-considers-holdout-source-says |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} skipping the organized team activity (OTA) workouts,{{Cite news |last=Brooks |first=Matt |date=May 23, 2012 |title=Matt Forte skips Bears OTAs as contract dispute continues – The Early Lead |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/early-lead/post/matt-forte-skips-bears-otas-as-contract-dispute-continues/2012/05/23/gJQAAEcvkU_blog.html?wprss=rss_sports |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141206182607/http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/early-lead/post/matt-forte-skips-bears-otas-as-contract-dispute-continues/2012/05/23/gJQAAEcvkU_blog.html?wprss=rss_sports |archive-date=December 6, 2014 |access-date=July 16, 2012 |work=The Washington Post}} before finally agreeing to a four-year, $32 million deal. In Week 2 against the Green Bay Packers, Forte sustained an ankle injury when he was tackled by Packers cornerback Charles Woodson,{{Cite web |date=September 21, 2012 |title=Bears' Forte out for Rams game |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/football/nfl/09/21/bears-forte-ankle-sits-rams.ap/index.html?section=si_latest |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130119101207/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/football/nfl/09/21/bears-forte-ankle-sits-rams.ap/index.html?section=si_latest |archive-date=January 19, 2013 |access-date=September 22, 2012 |publisher=CNN Sports Illustrated |agency=Associated Press}} originally reported as a dangerous "high ankle sprain"{{Cite web |last=Dickerson |first=Jeff |date=September 14, 2012 |title=Bears RB Forte injures ankle against Packers |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/8376430/chicago-bears-matt-forte-ankle-leaves-game-green-bay-packers |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190305143721/http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/8376430/chicago-bears-matt-forte-ankle-leaves-game-green-bay-packers |archive-date=March 5, 2019 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} but later down-graded{{Cite web |last=Brady |first=James |date=September 17, 2012 |title=Bears: Matt Forte Injury Is Not High Ankle Sprain |url=https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2012/9/17/3347280/bears-matt-forte-injury-high-ankle-sprain |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181202024654/https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2012/9/17/3347280/bears-matt-forte-injury-high-ankle-sprain |archive-date=December 2, 2018 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=SBNation.com |language=en}} and he only missed one game.{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=September 26, 2012 |title=Forte thinks he'll be able to play Monday |url=https://www.chicagobears.com/news/forte-thinks-he-ll-be-able-to-play-monday-8395827 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181202024641/https://www.chicagobears.com/news/forte-thinks-he-ll-be-able-to-play-monday-8395827 |archive-date=December 2, 2018 |access-date=September 27, 2012 |website=Chicago Bears}} On the season, he had three 100+ yard rushing performances, and one game with 50+ yards receiving. Forte ended the 2012 season with 248 carries for 1,094 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns to go along with a career-low 44 receptions for 340 yards, and dropped out from the top 10 in yards from scrimmage.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2012 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2012/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110047/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2012/ |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=July 29, 2013 |title=Forte eager to be more involved in passing game |url=https://www.chicagobears.com/news/forte-eager-to-be-more-involved-in-passing-game-10601211 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181202024627/https://www.chicagobears.com/news/forte-eager-to-be-more-involved-in-passing-game-10601211 |archive-date=December 2, 2018 |access-date=July 29, 2013 |website=Chicago Bears}}{{Cite web |title=2012 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/rushing.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127120509/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/rushing.htm |archive-date=November 27, 2020 |access-date=November 11, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{see also|2013 Chicago Bears season}}

In Week 3 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Forte had a 55-yard run, and the following week against the Detroit Lions, had a 53-yard run, making him the first Bears running back to record runs of 50+ yards in back-to-back games since Raymont Harris in 1997.{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=September 29, 2013 |title=Larry Mayers's Bears-Lions Game Blog |url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Larry-Mayers-Bears-Lions-Game-Blog/1c791176-a061-454f-a201-5b6ba071cb01 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107014326/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Larry-Mayers-Bears-Lions-Game-Blog/1c791176-a061-454f-a201-5b6ba071cb01 |archive-date=November 7, 2017 |access-date=September 29, 2013 |website=Chicago Bears}}{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Pittsburgh Steelers – September 22nd, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309220pit.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005204059/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309220pit.htm |archive-date=October 5, 2020 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions – September 29th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309290det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180108130703/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309290det.htm |archive-date=January 8, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Two weeks later, against the New Orleans Saints, Forte passed Rick Casares for third in the all-time leading rusher list with 5,702 career yards, behind Walter Payton and Neal Anderson.{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=October 6, 2013 |title=Jeffery sets Bears record in loss to Saints |url=https://www.chicagobears.com/news/jeffery-sets-bears-record-in-loss-to-saints-11431624 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181202024704/https://www.chicagobears.com/news/jeffery-sets-bears-record-in-loss-to-saints-11431624 |archive-date=December 2, 2018 |access-date=October 6, 2013 |website=Chicago Bears}} In Week 7 against the Washington Redskins, Forte scored three rushing touchdowns in the 45–41 loss.{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Washington Redskins – October 20th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201310200was.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303105904/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201310200was.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Against the Detroit Lions in Week 10, Forte recorded 49 yards from scrimmage to bring his season total to 1,023, and became the first player in Bears history and 18th NFL player to record 1,000 yards from scrimmage in each of his first six seasons.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears – November 10th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311100chi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190226040308/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311100chi.htm |archive-date=February 26, 2019 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=November 10, 2013 |title=Postgame notes – Bears vs. Lions week 10 |url=https://www.chicagobears.com/news/postgame-notes-bears-vs-lions-week-10-11787837 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170121232815/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Postgame-notes---Bears-vs-Lions-week-10/f90e164e-53a1-4c81-b4e6-8b18d2063af4 |archive-date=January 21, 2017 |access-date=November 10, 2013 |website=Chicago Bears}} On November 24, 2013, Forte passed Neal Anderson for the second most career rushing yards in Bears franchise history.{{Cite news |last=Stoltz |first=Jeremy |date=November 24, 2013 |title=Forte No. 2 rusher in Bears annals |url=http://chi.scout.com/2/1350346.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202225156/http://chi.scout.com/2/1350346.html |archive-date=December 2, 2013 |access-date=November 25, 2013 |work=Scout.com |publisher=Dear Report}} On December 27, Forte was named to the 2014 Pro Bowl.{{Cite web |last=Sessler |first=Marc |date=December 27, 2013 |title=2014 Pro Bowl roster analysis: Offense |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/2014-pro-bowl-roster-analysis-offense-0ap2000000304772 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131228213455/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap2000000304772/article/2014-pro-bowl-roster-analysis-offense |archive-date=December 28, 2013 |access-date=December 27, 2013 |website=National Football League}} In the Week 17 loss to Green Bay, Forte recorded his 20th 100-yard rushing game, tying Gale Sayers for the second-most in Bears history. He also had three touchdowns, becoming the third Bear with two three-touchdown games in a season.{{Cite web |title=Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears – December 29th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201312290chi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170829081317/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201312290chi.htm |archive-date=August 29, 2017 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Forte ended the 2013 season with a career-high nine rushing touchdowns along with 1,933 total yards from scrimmage, fifth-most in team history and the second-most behind Payton. Forte also had 1,339 rushing yards during the season, the ninth-most in franchise history.{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears Single-Season Rushing Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/single-season-rushing.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303105937/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/single-season-rushing.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2013 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2013/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303225112/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2013/ |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Forte's 1,339 rushing yards ranked second in the NFL in 2013, while his all-purpose yards from 1,933 yards ranked fourth.{{Cite news |last=LeGere |first=Bob |date=December 29, 2013 |title=Big season, but Forte wanted much more |url=https://www.dailyherald.com/article/20131229/sports/712299758/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140112063933/https://www.dailyherald.com/article/20131229/sports/712299758/ |archive-date=January 12, 2014 |access-date=January 11, 2014 |work=Daily Herald (Arlington Heights)}}{{Cite web |title=2013 NFL Rushing & Receiving |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2013/rushing.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180118011327/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2013/rushing.htm |archive-date=January 18, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Following the regular season's conclusion, Forte was one of three finalists for the FedEx Ground Player of the Year Award,{{Cite news |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=January 6, 2014 |title=Forte a finalist for FedEx Award |url=https://www.chicagobears.com/news/forte-a-finalist-for-fedex-award-12374348 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181202024643/https://www.chicagobears.com/news/forte-a-finalist-for-fedex-award-12374348 |archive-date=December 2, 2018 |access-date=January 11, 2014 |work=chicagobears.com}} but finished runner-up to LeSean McCoy and Jamaal Charles.{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Alex |date=February 1, 2014 |title=LeSean McCoy Wins FedEx Ground Award |url=http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/article-1/LeSean-McCoy-Wins-FedEx-Ground-Award/023f2d21-dfc2-4b88-a061-bca0757928bd |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140220081535/http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/article-1/LeSean-McCoy-Wins-FedEx-Ground-Award/023f2d21-dfc2-4b88-a061-bca0757928bd |archive-date=February 20, 2014 |access-date=February 2, 2014 |publisher=Philadelphia Eagles}} He was ranked 91st by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2014.{{Cite web |title=2014 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2014-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211112164602/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2014-nfl-top-100.htm |archive-date=November 12, 2021 |access-date=June 21, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{see also|2014 Chicago Bears season}}

File:Matt Forte Brandon Marshall Alshon Jeffery 2014.jpg and Alshon Jeffery in 2014]]

In 2014, Forte solidified his reputation as one of the best receiving backs in NFL history, with five or more receptions in 14 of 16 games.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2014 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2014/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303225115/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2014/ |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} This included twelve receptions for 105 yards in the fifth game, followed by ten receptions for 77 in the sixth game, becoming just the fourth Bear (since joined by Alshon Jeffery in 2015),{{Cite web |title=Players with at least ten receptions in consecutive games, Chicago Bears |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/player_streak_finder.cgi?request=1&match=games&year_min=1920&year_max=2017&team_id=chi&game_type=R&streak_event=rec&streak_event_gtlt=gt&streak_num=10&streak_event_gtlt_2=gt&streak_num_2=0&streak_length=2 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110004/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/player_streak_finder.cgi?request=1&match=games&year_min=1920&year_max=2017&team_id=chi&game_type=R&streak_event=rec&streak_event_gtlt=gt&streak_num=10&streak_event_gtlt_2=gt&streak_num_2=0&streak_length=2 |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} and the second running back in NFL history with back-to-back 10+ reception games.{{Cite web |title=Players with at least ten rush attempts and ten receptions in back-to-back games, NFL history |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/player_streak_finder.cgi?request=1&match=games&year_min=1920&year_max=2017&game_type=R&streak_event=rec&streak_event_gtlt=gt&streak_num=10&streak_event_2=rush_att&streak_event_gtlt_2=gt&streak_num_2=10&streak_length=2 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109000039/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/player_streak_finder.cgi?request=1&match=games&year_min=1920&year_max=2017&game_type=R&streak_event=rec&streak_event_gtlt=gt&streak_num=10&streak_event_2=rush_att&streak_event_gtlt_2=gt&streak_num_2=10&streak_length=2 |archive-date=November 9, 2017 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Carolina Panthers – October 5th, 2014 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201410050car.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180119235326/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201410050car.htm |archive-date=January 19, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Atlanta Falcons – October 12th, 2014 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201410120atl.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110049/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201410120atl.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}. As of 2017, James Wilder Sr. was the only other player to accomplished this feat, in 1984. He ended the season with 102 receptions, breaking Larry Centers' 1995 record for running backs, which was later eclipsed by Carolina Panthers running back, Christian McCaffrey in 2018. Forte also had three 100+ yard rushing games, and nine games with 100+ yards from scrimmage. He passed 1,000 yards rushing for the third consecutive season (joining Neal Anderson and Walter Payton as the only Bears to do so), and for the fifth time in his career (second only to Payton).{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears Single-Season Rushing Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/single-season-rushing.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303105937/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/single-season-rushing.htm |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=June 21, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was ranked 48th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2015.{{Cite web |title=2015 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2015-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211112163419/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2015-nfl-top-100.htm |archive-date=November 12, 2021 |access-date=June 21, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{see also|2015 Chicago Bears season}}

In Week 1, Forte started with a season-best 141 rushing yards on 24 carries and a touchdown against Green Bay, his best since the 2011 season.{{Cite web |title=Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears – September 13th, 2015 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201509130chi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220601115929/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201509130chi.htm |archive-date=June 1, 2022 |access-date=June 21, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} His production was sub-par even before a knee injury at the hands of Minnesota's Harrison Smith sidelined him for three games.{{Cite web |date=November 2, 2015 |title=Chicago Bears: Matt Forte should not need surgery |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2015/11/02/chicago-bears-matt-forte-knee-injury-status-surgery |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225200825/https://www.si.com/nfl/2015/11/02/chicago-bears-matt-forte-knee-injury-status-surgery |archive-date=February 25, 2021 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=SI.com |language=en}} In 13 games in the 2015 season, Forte rushed for 898 yards and four touchdowns, and caught 44 passes for 389 yards and three touchdowns, a then-career-low 1,287 yards from scrimmage.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2015 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109000044/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2015 |archive-date=November 9, 2017 |access-date=November 1, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was ranked 90th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2016.{{Cite web |title=2016 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2016-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211112163202/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2016-nfl-top-100.htm |archive-date=November 12, 2021 |access-date=June 21, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

On February 12, 2016, Forte announced that the Bears were not going to attempt to re-sign him in free agency.{{Cite web |title=Instagram post by Matt Forte • Feb 12, 2016 at 3:15pm UTC |url=https://www.instagram.com/p/BBsN17qp4Xl/ |url-access=registration |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/s/instagram/BBsN17qp4Xl |archive-date=December 26, 2021 |website=Instagram}}{{cbignore}} Ryan Pace, the Bears' general manager, later confirmed the Bears were not going to re-sign Forte. He praised Forte's contributions to the Bears by stating, "Matt is one of the all-time great Bears and did an excellent job for us on and off the field last season."{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=February 12, 2016 |title=Bears will not re-sign Matt Forte |url=https://www.chicagobears.com/news/bears-will-not-re-sign-matt-forte-16819619 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181202024648/https://www.chicagobears.com/news/bears-will-not-re-sign-matt-forte-16819619 |archive-date=December 2, 2018 |access-date=February 12, 2016 |website=chicagobears.com}}

{{see also|2016 New York Jets season}}

On March 9, 2016, Forte signed a three-year, $12 million contract with the New York Jets.{{Cite web |last=Dickerson |first=Jeff |date=March 9, 2016 |title=Source: Jets to sign RB Forte to replace Ivory |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/14936134/new-york-jets-sign-matt-forte-replace-chris-ivory |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310093929/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/14936134/new-york-jets-sign-matt-forte-replace-chris-ivory |archive-date=March 10, 2016 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=ESPN.com}} In his Jets debut, during their season-opening loss against the Cincinnati Bengals, Forte had 22 carries for 96 rushing yards and five catches for 59 receiving yards in the 23–22 loss.{{Cite web |title=Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets – September 11th, 2016 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201609110nyj.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621020150/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201609110nyj.htm |archive-date=June 21, 2022 |access-date=November 3, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The following week, he finished a 37–31 victory over the Buffalo Bills with 30 carries for 100 yards and tied a career-high with three rushing touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=New York Jets at Buffalo Bills – September 15th, 2016 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201609150buf.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171102191907/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201609150buf.htm |archive-date=November 2, 2017 |access-date=November 3, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} On October 23, 2016, Forte carried the ball 30 times for 100 yards and a rushing touchdown while also making four receptions for 54 receiving yards and caught his first touchdown reception of the season in a win over the Baltimore Ravens.{{Cite web |title=Baltimore Ravens at New York Jets – October 23rd, 2016 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201610230nyj.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107033412/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201610230nyj.htm |archive-date=November 7, 2017 |access-date=November 3, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was placed on injured reserve on December 30, 2016, with a knee injury.{{Cite web |last=Jackson |first=Zac |date=December 30, 2016 |title=Jets place Forte on IR |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2016/12/30/jets-place-forte-on-ir/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170102193038/http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2016/12/30/jets-place-forte-on-ir/ |archive-date=January 2, 2017 |access-date=June 21, 2022 |website=ProFootballTalk |language=en-US}} The 5–11 Jets frequently fell behind early in games, and Forte split rushing duties with Bilal Powell.{{Cite web |title=2016 New York Jets Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/nyj/2016.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109074837/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/nyj/2016.htm |archive-date=November 9, 2017 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He finished his first season as a Jet with a career-low 813 rushing yards with seven touchdowns to go along with 30 receptions for 263 yards and one touchdown.{{Cite web |last=Allen |first=Eric |date=December 30, 2016 |title=Jets Place RB Matt Forté on Injured Reserve |url=https://www.newyorkjets.com/news/jets-place-rb-matt-forte-on-injured-reserve-18364521 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210307055716/https://www.newyorkjets.com/news/jets-place-rb-matt-forte-on-injured-reserve-18364521 |archive-date=March 7, 2021 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=NewYorkJets.com}}{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2016 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2016/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303110015/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2016/ |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{see also|2017 New York Jets season}}

Forte had a career-low 152 yards from scrimmage in his first three games before a toe injury sidelined him for two weeks, allowing Bilal Powell to emerge as a legitimate replacement.{{Cite web |last=Theodorakis |first=Andrew |date=September 29, 2017 |title=Forte's toe injury opens door for Powell and surprising rookie |url=https://nypost.com/2017/09/29/fortes-toe-injury-opens-door-for-powell-and-surprising-rookie/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112014558/https://nypost.com/2017/09/29/fortes-toe-injury-opens-door-for-powell-and-surprising-rookie/ |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=New York Post}} He did not have a game with 10 rushing attempts until Week 9, when he scored his first two touchdowns of the season in a 34–21 victory over the Buffalo Bills on Thursday Night Football.{{Cite web |title=Buffalo Bills at New York Jets – November 2nd, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201711020nyj.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109145223/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201711020nyj.htm |archive-date=November 9, 2017 |access-date=November 8, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was placed on injured reserve on December 30, 2017, after battling a knee injury for most of the season.{{Cite web |last=Greenberg |first=Ethan |date=December 30, 2017 |title=Jets Place RB Forté on Injured Reserve |url=https://www.newyorkjets.com/news/jets-place-rb-forte-on-injured-reserve-20162649 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200930031032/https://www.newyorkjets.com/news/jets-place-rb-forte-on-injured-reserve-20162649 |archive-date=September 30, 2020 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=NewYorkJets.com}} On Christmas Eve, against the Los Angeles Chargers, he had 19 rushing yards and seven receiving yards in what would be his final professional game.{{Cite web |title=Los Angeles Chargers at New York Jets – December 24th, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201712240nyj.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180125134516/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201712240nyj.htm |archive-date=January 25, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Overall, he finished the 2017 season with 381 rushing yards, two rushing touchdowns, 37 receptions, 293 receiving yards, and one receiving touchdown.{{Cite web |title=Matt Forte 2017 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2017/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303105949/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FortMa00/gamelog/2017/ |archive-date=March 3, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

On February 28, 2018, Forte announced his retirement from the NFL after 10 seasons.{{Cite web |last=Romano |first=Jason |date=February 28, 2018 |title=Matt Forte says goodbye to the NFL after 10 seasons |url=https://sportsspectrum.com/sport/football/2018/02/28/matt-forte-says-goodbye-nfl-10-seasons/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201203132933/https://sportsspectrum.com/sport/football/2018/02/28/matt-forte-says-goodbye-nfl-10-seasons/ |archive-date=December 3, 2020 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=SportsSpectrum.com}}{{Cite web |last=Knoblauch |first=Austin |date=February 28, 2018 |title=Matt Forte announces retirement after 10 NFL seasons |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000917977/article/matt-forte-announces-his-retirement-from-nfl |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180911081811/https://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000917977/article/matt-forte-announces-his-retirement-from-nfl |archive-date=September 11, 2018 |website=NFL.com}} The Chicago Bears honored both Forte and former teammate Devin Hester on April 23 during a press conference at Halas Hall. The two players signed ceremonial one-day contracts to retire as members of the Bears.{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=April 23, 2018 |title=Hester, Forte officially retire as Bears |url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Hester-Forte-officially-retire-as-Bears/6911eaf3-b4d3-4c51-a2c6-f1f48ed676bd |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180424140101/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Hester-Forte-officially-retire-as-Bears/6911eaf3-b4d3-4c51-a2c6-f1f48ed676bd |archive-date=April 24, 2018 |access-date=April 24, 2018 |website=Chicago Bears}} Bears chairman George McCaskey praised Forte's legacy with the Bears, lauding the former running back as "a superior athlete and frequently the best player on the field — among the best in a long line of great Bears running backs."

Forte later joined NBC Sports Chicago's Football Aftershow as an analyst alongside Laurence Holmes and former teammates Alex Brown, Lance Briggs, and Olin Kreutz.{{Cite web |date=August 20, 2019 |title=Olin Kreutz to join NBC Sports Chicago's Bears coverage team |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/chicago/bears/olin-kreutz-join-nbc-sports-chicagos-bears-coverage-team |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190820212141/https://www.nbcsports.com/chicago/bears/olin-kreutz-join-nbc-sports-chicagos-bears-coverage-team |archive-date=August 20, 2019 |access-date=August 20, 2019 |website=NBC Sports Chicago}}

Forte was ranked 34th by the Chicago Bears on their list of the Top 100 greatest Bears of all-time.{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=May 23, 2019 |title=Ranking best Bears of all time |url=https://www.chicagobears.com/news/ranking-best-bears-of-all-time-nos-1-25 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200727215421/https://www.chicagobears.com/news/ranking-best-bears-of-all-time-nos-1-25 |archive-date=July 27, 2020 |access-date=June 26, 2022 |website=Chicago Bears}}

Forte was inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2023.{{Cite news |last=Vangilder |first=Lenny |date=July 20, 2023 |title=Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame 2023: Matt Forte proved doubters wrong at every level |url=https://www.nola.com/sports/more/former-tulane-star-matt-forte-proved-doubters-wrong/article_78094817-180c-5a02-98c5-01a989804d8a.html |access-date=July 21, 2023 |work=The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate}}

• 2× Pro Bowl (2011, 2013)
• 2008 NFL All-Rookie Team
• NFC Offensive Player of the Week (Week 1, 2010)
• Diet Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week (Week 12, 2008)

• Most rush attempts, rookie season (316){{Cite web |title=Most rushing attempts in one season by a rookie, Chicago Bears |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-rushing-attempts-by-a-player-chicago-bears-in-a-rookie-season |access-date=June 21, 2022 |website=StatMuse |language=en}}
• Most receptions, rookie season (63){{Cite web |title=Most receptions in one season by a rookie, Chicago Bears |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-receptions-by-a-player-chicago-bears-in-a-rookie-season |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621020150/https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-receptions-by-a-player-chicago-bears-in-a-rookie-season |archive-date=June 21, 2022 |access-date=June 21, 2022 |website=StatMuse |language=en}}
• Most yards from scrimmage, rookie season (1,715){{Cite web |title=Most yards from scrimmage in one season by a rookie, Chicago Bears |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-yards-from-scrimmage-by-a-player-chicago-bears-in-a-rookie-season |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621020230/https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-yards-from-scrimmage-by-a-player-chicago-bears-in-a-rookie-season |archive-date=June 21, 2022 |access-date=June 21, 2022 |website=StatMuse |language=en}}
• Most receptions, postseason game (10, January 23, 2011, in the NFC Championship against the Green Bay Packers) (tied with Allen Robinson){{Cite web |title=Most receptions in a playoff game, Chicago Bears |url=http://pfref.com/tiny/dk2hC |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210108032722/https://stathead.com/tools/tiny.fcgi?id=dk2hC |archive-date=January 8, 2021 |access-date=June 20, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
• Games with at least three touchdowns in a season (2 in 2013, tied with Gale Sayers, Walter Payton, and Neal Anderson)

Forte married Danielle Daniels in August 2011. The couple has three children: Nahla (born in 2013), Matthew Christian (born in 2015) and Nia (born in 2021).{{Cite web |last=Hendricks |first=Maggie |date=July 8, 2013 |title=Matt Forte Embracing New Baby and Offense |url=http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/grizzly-detail/Matt-Forte-Embracing-New-Baby-and-Offense-210580391.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109033820/https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/matt-forte-embracing-new-baby-and-offense/1973733/ |archive-date=November 9, 2020 |access-date=January 4, 2014 |website=NBC}}{{Cite web |last=Thele |first=Kyle |date=December 3, 2015 |title=Matt Forte celebrates the birth of his son Matthew Christian Forte |url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/sports/7/71/1151186/matt-forte-celebrates-birth-son-matthew-christian-forte |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151207054103/http://chicago.suntimes.com/sports/7/71/1151186/matt-forte-celebrates-birth-son-matthew-christian-forte |archive-date=December 7, 2015 |access-date=December 3, 2015 |website=Sun-Times}} Forte and his family resided in Mettawa, Illinois, during his tenure with the Bears.{{Cite web |last=Rodnick |first=Dennis |date=April 15, 2013 |title=The Bears' Matt Forte Just Bought a Secluded Mettawa Home |url=http://www.chicagomag.com/Radar/Deal-Estate/April-2013/Bears-Matt-Forte-Buys-Secluded-Mettawa-Home/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181009070132/https://www.chicagomag.com/Radar/Deal-Estate/April-2013/Bears-Matt-Forte-Buys-Secluded-Mettawa-Home/ |archive-date=October 9, 2018 |access-date=January 4, 2014 |website=Chicago}} His cousin is safety Andrew Adams.{{Cite news |last=Birkett |first=Dave |date=July 30, 2019 |title=Detroit Lions S Andrew Adams has football in his blood: 'Enjoy the grind:' |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/07/30/detroit-lions-andrew-adams/1871692001/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230107225852/https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/07/30/detroit-lions-andrew-adams/1871692001/ |archive-date=January 7, 2023 |access-date=January 7, 2023 |work=Detroit Free Press}}

Forte is a Christian and attends weekly team Bible studies and chapels.{{Cite web |last=Forte |first=Matt |date=November 2009 |title=My Story |url=http://archives.fca.org/vsItemDisplay.lsp?method=display&objectid=9C6FA9BE-C29A-EE7A-E82113ED423B0C23 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160122191346/http://archives.fca.org/vsItemDisplay.lsp?method=display&objectid=9C6FA9BE-C29A-EE7A-E82113ED423B0C23 |archive-date=January 22, 2016 |website=FCA.org}} Forte has spoken about his faith saying, "When people look at me, I don't want them to just see football. I want my faith to speak for me and that it's about more than that. It's about reaching out to others and telling them about your faith."{{Cite web |last=Kemp |first=Jacob |date=April 7, 2015 |title=Matt Forte's faith a top priority |url=http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/story/sports/2015/04/07/forte-faith-top-priority/25442951/ |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Hattiesburg American}}

Forte earned a degree in Finance from Tulane University in May 2009.{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=May 11, 2009 |title=Forte hits books to earn finance degree from Tulane |url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=5815 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090515085058/https://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=5815 |archive-date=May 15, 2009 |access-date=May 11, 2009 |website=Chicago Bears}}

Forte took part in the 2008 Rookie Madden Bowl.{{Cite web |date=June 14, 2012 |title=EA Hosts Second Annual Rookie Madden Bowl – IGN |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/05/22/ea-hosts-second-annual-rookie-madden-bowl |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140318125351/http://www.ign.com/articles/2008/05/22/ea-hosts-second-annual-rookie-madden-bowl |archive-date=March 18, 2014 |access-date=November 9, 2020 |website=IGN.com |language=en}}

{{reflist|30em}}

{{commons category|Matt Forté}}

• {{Footballstats |espn=11278 |cbs= |yahoo=8821 |pfr=FortMa00}}
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20071218222256/http://tulanegreenwave.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/forte_matt01.html Tulane Green Wave bio]

{{Bears2008DraftPicks}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Forte, Matt}}

Category:1985 births

Category:Living people

Category:American football running backs

Category:Chicago Bears players

Category:New York Jets players

Category:National Conference Pro Bowl players

Category:Slidell High School alumni

Category:Players of American football from Lake Charles, Louisiana

Category:Tulane Green Wave football players

Category:Unconferenced Pro Bowl players

Category:Sportspeople from Slidell, Louisiana

Category:Players of American football from St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana

Category:Players of American football from Lake County, Illinois

Category:21st-century African-American sportsmen

Category:20th-century African-American sportsmen

Category:20th-century American sportsmen

Category:Brian Piccolo Award winners