With contract talks between the Bears and Matt Forté's representation at a standstill since August, using the franchise tag on Forté in 2012 appeared to be the Bears' most likely course of action throughout the season. That outcome is as likely as ever in the wake of the MCL sprain Forté suffered in his right knee early in the Bears' loss to the Chiefs in Week 13. There has been speculation that Forté might not be motivated to get back on the field as quickly as possible due to his unhappiness with the long-term offer the Bears made him, but indications are he's working hard and is taking every step he can to join his teammates as they try to keep pace in the wild-card race. Forté has been durable — he has started 60 consecutive games for the Bears since entering the league in 2008 — and has played through injuries before. His current ailment is expected to keep him out for at least two weeks.

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