ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter first reported that the Bears and Forte agreed on a 4-year, $31.5 deal Monday morning, ending any chances of a potential holdout for the star running back.

Forte was originally due to make $7.74 million this season after the Bears placed the franchise tag on him. Despite an injury-shortened 2011 season, Forte still racked up 997 yards on the ground in 12 games. The multi-purpose running back should be pushed even harder this year with the team’s acquisition of Michael Bush in the offseason and the added offensive threat of Brandon Marshall.

Many have questioned for months whether or not the Bears should sign Forte to a long-term deal given his position and recent injury as well. The potential threat of a training camp holdout may have contributed to the team’s decision.

What do you think?  Was Forte’s contract justified? Did the Bears overpay simply to keep him happy?

Early word out of Halas Hall has veteran linebacker Jamar Williams headed to Carolina in exchange for Harris.

This from Brad Biggs’ conversation with Harris:

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The Bears acquired quarterback Jay Cutler today for No. 1 draft picks in 2009 and 2010, a No. 3 pick this year and Kyle Orton, the Sun-Times has learned. The Bears receive the Broncos’ fifth-round draft pick this year. Cutler, 25, is coming off a Pro Bowl season with the Broncos, but he became disgruntled and wanted a trade after learning Denver was considering a deal for quarterback Matt Cassel.

This is an unprecedented move!