"Bears running back Matt Forte appreciates teammate Lance Briggs speaking out on his behalf.

Although Briggs obviously wants to take care of himself as he lobbies for a pay raise, the linebacker also thinks Forte should get an extension.

"That shows a lot of respect,'' Forte said. "I respect him as well.''

The front office views Forte's extension as more of a priority than Briggs' request, but Forte still stands at a base salary of $600,000 in this, the final year of his rookie contract.

Does Forte believe he will get a deal done before the regular season starts Sept. 11?

"I hope so,'' Forte said. "I hope eliminates all the distractions going into the season. I'm looking forward to getting the deal done.''"