When you think about some of the best Chicago Bears over the last decade, one of the names that immediately jumps to mind is running back Matt Forte, who in eight seasons with the Bears left his mark on a franchise known for its great running backs.
Forte finished his Bears career as the team’s second leading rusher (8,602 yards), where he ranked behind only Hall of Famer Walter Payton. Forte also ranks fourth in rushing touchdowns (45), second in career receptions (487) and seventh in receiving yards (4,116) all-time.
ESPN dubbed Forte the Bears’ best player over the last decade. Forte spent his first eight seasons in Chicago from 2008-15, where he was a cornerstone piece of their offense.
Forte entered the league in 2008 (second-round pick out of Tulane) but became arguably the NFL’s best all-purpose back during the first half of the next decade. Forte spent eight seasons with the Bears, rushing for 8,602 yards and scoring 64 touchdowns. Forte ranks second, behind only Hall of Famer Walter Payton, on Chicago’s all-time lists for rushing yards, yards from scrimmage (12,718), receptions (487) and 100-yard games (24). He’s third in total touchdowns and sixth in receiving yards (4,116). Forte joined the New York Jets after the Bears decided against re-signing him following the 2015 season, but without question, Forte’s most productive years were in Chicago.
As for honorable mentions, Brian Urlacher, Charles Tillman, Lance Briggs, Brandon Marshall, Julius Peppers and even Jay Cutler just missed the cut. So why did they give Forte the nod?
Forte earned the nod over Urlacher, Briggs and Tillman because they did the majority of their damage the previous decade. Marshall and Peppers didn’t play in Chicago long enough to unseat Forte. And Cutler is Cutler. You know what I mean.
ESPN also created an NFC North All-2010s team, where the Bears were nearly shut-out on offense aside from Kyle Long at left guard. On defense, linebacker Lance Briggs, cornerback Charles Tillman, defensive end Julius Peppers and defensive end Jared Allen made the list. Cordarrelle Patterson made the cut on special teams as a kick returner, where he thrived during his time with the Minnesota Vikings and now in Chicago.
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