Fantasy Football: Previewing the Chicago Bears
Matt Forte, RB
Dec 21, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte (22) catches an 11 yard touchdown pass during the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Drafting Forte will come at a hefty price, but it is hard to find a more solid and consistent player at any position in fantasy football. The fact that Forte plays running back, which is the most unpredictable position in fantasy, is the icing on the cake.
Forte has been such a major part of the Bears’ offense in recent years, that it is impossible for him not to be a major fantasy contributor. He is not only the team’s featured rusher, Forte has also been the most consistent receiver on the roster in recent years.
His rushing numbers were okay last season (1,038 yards and six touchdowns on the ground), but adding in his 102 receptions for 808 yards and four touchdowns gives us a very productive fantasy back, especially in PPR (point per reception) leagues.
Forte’s 102 receptions last season were not only the highest total for running backs in the entire league, it was the fourth highest total for any position. This guy is a legitimate receiver out of the backfield, and that combined with his obvious rushing talent makes him a rock-solid choice at the running back position.
He becomes an unrestricted free agent after this season, and at 29-years-old, I imagine the Bears will move on from Forte. That being said, he is clearly the featured guy for the team in 2015, and they will not be afraid to use every last bit of his talent left in the tank. Do not be surprised to see Forte receive an even slightly increased workload this season.
Both Ka’Deem Carey and Jeremy Langford are interesting dynasty targets with Forte likely out of the picture next season, but it is very difficult to predict which one will get the larger workload. Considering he was drafted by the new regime, I give Langford the slight edge right now, but this could go either way.
Forte currently has an ADP of the eighth overall pick. He may not have quite the upside of some of the guys around him, but there are few safer choices in all of fantasy football.
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