Bears, Matt Forte reach a four-year deal

CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Bears say they have agreed to a four-year contract with Pro Bowl running back Matt Forte.

The sides had a Monday, July 16th deadline to reach a deal. Otherwise, Forte would have had to play next season for $7.74 million after being hit with the franchise player tag or hold out.

The Bears did not release the financial terms, and agent Adisa Bakari did not return calls seeking comment. The Chicago Sun-Times, citing a source, reported the deal is worth $32 million with more than $18 million guaranteed.

The agreement settles the biggest issue hanging over the team. The Bears will have all their key pieces in place when training camp starts next week.