What It Means:

"Despite my wishes, my days as a member of the Chicago Bears have sadly come to an end," Forte wrote. "I was informed earlier this week from the (general manager) that they will not be attempting to re-sign me in free agency." The writing has been on the wall for months. Forte's agent tried to engage in extension talks during the season, but he was shot down by general manager Ryan Pace. Chicago will move forward with Jeremy Langford as the assumed 2016 starter.

Forte -- who has stated he only wants to sign with a contender -- turned 30 in December and has been connected to the New England Patriots as a potential match. Both Forte and Langford were effective all-around running backs in 2015. Among backs with at least 100 carries, Langford ranked 11th in Rushing Net Expected Points (NEP) per attempt while Forte was 14th. Among backs with at least 40 targets, Langford checked in fourth in Reception NEP per target while Forte was ninth.