NFL Trade Machine: The Matt Forte Question

Dec 28, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte (22) runs in the first quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Adrian Peterson is of course the major talking point when it comes to running backs who are available for trade. His history speaks for itself but the big obstacle nobody can seem to get past is his hefty contract that would bring an instant cap hit of $15.4 million. Such things make an NFL trade difficult. Which begs this follow-up question.

Why is nobody looking at Matt Forte?

The benefits are there. He’s a proven runner who put up over 1,800 yards from scrimmage and 10 touchdowns in 2014. He is 29-years old, keeps himself in great shape and hasn’t missed a game since 2011. To top it off, a trade for him wouldn’t cost as much both in terms of pick compensation or money as his contract would garner just $9.2 million. Adding to allure is the fact he’s a free agent in 2016 so there is no concern of dead money.

If a contending team is looking for a short-term answer at running back, he has to be one to consider. The Chicago Bears are entering a rebuilding phase under new GM Ryan Pace and could use the extra pick (they only have six) and cap flexibility.

So among the league teams who can be considered playoff threats, who have the need and means to deal for the two-time Pro Bowler?

#3: San Diego Chargers

Time is running out for the San Diego Chargers. Philip Rivers could be leaving in 2016 and now after losing Ryan Mathews they are dangerously thin at running back. Forte would give Rivers a two-way threat he hasn’t had for a long time and their $19 million in cap space makes his contract a relative non-issue. Coupled with the arrival of Orlando Franklin, the Chargers could finally seize control of the AFC West with Forte in the fold.

#2: Atlanta Falcons

Steven Jackson was a colossal failure for the Atlanta Falcons. Devonta Freeman looks like something but honestly they can’t bank the future of that position on a mid round pick in his second year. If the Falcons are serious about making noise in that AFC South division, they need to embrace smashmouth football. Matt Ryan has proven very adept when he has a running game and versatile back like Forte would be a dream come true. As for money, their $23 million in cap space is plenty for his contract.

#1: Arizona Cardinals

They’ve been hot on the Peterson trail for weeks but the Arizona Cardinals just don’t have the wiggle room to absorb his contract. As it stands they have $9.2 million available. It would take some serious maneuvering to make that work. On the other hand they would only have to make a few changes to the pay structure in order to get Matt Forte, who would make a nice compliment with Andre Ellington. Bruce Arians likes backs who can do more than one thing. Given the age of Carson Palmer, the 2015 season has to be one of urgency for the red birds. So renting a proven veteran at a need position with a draft pick makes more sense for them.

Next: Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft 2.0

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