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Chicago TribuneThe Chicago Bears have invested good money in a No. 2 running back for the third consecutive year, and the signing Thursday of free agent Michael Bush to a four-year contract could prove to be quality insurance if a contract agreement can't be reached with Matt Forte.
Bush becomes the third significant piece added to the Bears' offense in a little more than a week. The former Oakland Raiders running back, who visited Halas Hall this month, was arguably the top player at his position available in free agency.
He’s clearly the backup to Forte, who has been tendered with the franchise tag, meaning he will earn $7.742 million this season. Forte has yet to sign that tender, and general manager Phil Emery said Friday the team continues to work toward signing him. But in the absence of a deal for Forte, the Bears could have a bona fide starter in Bush.
“Obviously, we want Matt to be a Bear for the long term,” Emery said. “We’re working toward that resolution.”
Bush rushed for a career-high 977 yards in 16 games for the Raiders last season, starting nine as Darren McFadden was sidelined with a foot injury. He also caught 37 passes out of the backfield for 418 yards (11.3 average), so he has the kind of versatility the Bears are used to in Forte.
The Cincinnati Bengals also had interest in Bush, but they signed BenJarvus Green-Ellis on Wednesday, taking away what might have been Bush’s best opportunity for a starting job. Bush had interest from other teams, and the Seattle Seahawks were reportedly pursuing him.
Hell of a backup running back...
Peace out Barbarian!