"As Matt Forte stuffed belongings into a plastic bag at his Halas Hall locker Monday morning, it was with the knowledge he'll be back.

Not all of his teammates could leave with the same security. The question for Forte, who will be an unrestricted free agent, is if he gets a long-term contract or general manager Jerry Angelo places the franchise tag on him. There isn't an Option C.

The Bears broke off talks with Forte before the regular season and despite sporadic communication with agent Adisa Bakari, the sides never approached common ground during the year.

The Bears seem to be in a position where they will be unlikely to raise their offer, while he says his value is enhanced after his first Pro Bowl season. These sides appear entrenched once again. Angelo has maintained all along the Bears made a spirited effort to sign the 2008 second-round draft pick."