The Chicago Bears continue to work around their ongoing contract dispute with All-Pro RB Matt Forte. According to Peggy Kusinski of NBC, Chicago anticipate the fifth-year running back will miss the beginning of organized team activities next Monday:
#Bears Lovie Smith confirmed @MattForte22 won't take part in OTA starting Monday - has not signed franchise tender
— peggy kusinski (@peggykusinski) April 10, 2012
Forte has played all four years of his NFL career with the Chicago Bears. With the conclusion of his rookie contract in 2011, Forte began campaigning for a long-term, top-tier extension, but negotiations have since stalled. The team tendered Forte a franchise player contract, but Forte has yet to sign the deal.
Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation NFL for more news and notes from around the league.