Bears Bringing Back Kahlil Bell

Aug 18, 2012; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears running back Kahlil Bell (32) with the ball during the second half against the Washington Redskins at Soldier Field. The Bears won 33-31. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-US PRESSWIRE

Even though there has been no official word on the status of Matt Forte, the Bears tipped their hand a bit on the status of their star running back by bringing back a familiar face in running back Kahlil Bell.  Bell was let go just before the third preseason game vs the Giants after refusing to take a pay cut. The Bears brought him back on a minimum salary, which for his years of service amounts to about $615k.

The Bears brought Steve Slaton in for a look under the hood, but Bell’s familiarity with the offense made him a better fit for the Bears.  Expect Michael Bush to get the bulk of the work, with Bell and Armando Allen to share the work behind him.

One thing Bell needs to work on during his return engagement with the Bears is his ball security.  When given a chance late last season when Forte was injured, Bell performed decently, but had a couple of costly fumbles.  That can’t happen over these next few weeks while Forte is on the mend.

Forte suffered what’s believed to be a high ankle sprain, which is typically around a 4 week injury.  Given how their schedule shakes out, I think Forte could be targeted for a comeback vs the Lions in Week 7.