Matt Forte Upset With The Bears Over Michael Bush Signing

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte is not happy with the team after they signed another high profile running back, while still refusing to give him the long term extension he has been seeking.

Thursday afternoon the Bears announced the signing of former Raiders back Michael Bush to a four year, $14 million deal with $7 million in guaranteed money.

Forte was upset and took to his twitter account to express his displeasure.

There's only so many times a man that has done everything he's been asked to do can be disrespected! Guess the GOOD GUYS do finish last.... , Forte tweeted.

It's not as if Forte isn't getting paid well this season, he was franchised by the Bears earlier this month and will make $7.74 million for the 2012 season. But he has been one of the most dependable backs in the league over the past four years.

Forte has missed just four games and racked up 4.233 yards and 21 touchdowns over that stretch. The 6'2 218 pound workhorse back averages 4.2 yards per carry for his career and his 4.9 YPC last year was second among players with at least 200 carries.

Despite this, the Bears have continually brought in big names at big money to back him up while never committing to Forte for the long haul. In addition to Bush, Chicago has signed Kevin Jones, Chester Taylor and Marion Barber at a price tag of more than $13 million dollars.

Over that same span, Forte was paid just $3.78 million dollars as he played out the full length of his rookie contract.

Generally speaking, a player who has a minimal rookie contract who quickly becomes a Pro-Bowl talent is taken care of, with a new deal, but that has not happened for Forte.

He's not alone in his anger. Former Bears and current Panthers tight end Greg Olsen also tweeted in dismay at the Bush signing.

Why keep paying backups big [money] every [year]? Crazy! Olsen tweeted. Matt deserves better.

He followed up with, Of course backup RB is important. All I'm saying is take care of workhorse first then find his backup. Matt been best player for yrs, in response to fans questions.

In all likelihood this won't have an effect on anything this season. Forte is on a one-year deal and it is in his best interests for next year that he performs the best he can. Chicago cannot franchise him again, and so they will be forced to talk long term next offseason or lose Forte to a team that will.