Chicago Bears

Former Chicago Bears RB Matt Forte Announces NFL Retirement

Former Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte has announced his retirement from the NFL.

Forte, who spent the first eight seasons of his career with the Bears, rushed for 9796 yards and 54 touchdowns in his NFL career, and set a number of records with the team after being a second round pick in 2008.

Forte announced his retirement on social media:

“After much prayer and reflection, I’ve decided to retire from the NFL,” Forte said in a statement. “While my heart is a bit heavy as a close this chapter of my life, I am excited about what the future holds. God bless, and Bear Down!”

Forte is the second-leading rusher in Bears history, with 8602 yards as a member of the team. He rushed for 1000 or more yards five times, second in team history to Walter Payton, and is one of only three Bears to rush for 1000 or more yards in a season three straight years. 

"I am forever indebted to Jimmie and Dolores Daniels and the city of Chicago becuase not only did I get to live out my childhood dream in playing for the Bears, but also it was here where I fell in love with my beautiful wife Danielle and started a family of my own," he said. 

He also thanked the McCaskey family for their support over the years, and gave a shout-out to the great running backs who played before him. 

"Thank you for allowing me to be part of the rich Chicago Bears tradition and to run in the footsteps of greats like Gale Sayers and Walter Payton," he said. 

Contact Us