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While Latavius Murray has certainly lived up to the billing as a capable lead back for the Oakland Raiders this season, he’s far from a reliable weekly option due to his proneness to injury. That’s why the team should target Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte next offseason if he happens to hit free agency.
Forte is arguably one of the best (and most underrated) running backs in the NFL, consistently proving to be the engine behind Chicago’s offense. Although it’s hard to believe he’d actually leave the Bears despite being a free agent, the team might not be willing to dish out the necessary money to keep the 29-year-old back in the Windy City.
If that’s the case, the Raiders should jump at the opportunity to sign Forte, especially since they’ll have over $70 million in cap space to work with during the 2016 offseason.
Forte would bring a whole new dimension to the Oakland offense, providing quarterback Derek Carr with a dangerous weapon in the passing game. One of the best receiving backs in the game, Forte excels at hurting defenses with his hands — as evidenced by his 102 catches, 808 yards and four touchdowns through the air in 2014.
Signing Forte would also give the Raiders one of the most exciting backfields in the NFL. Teaming Forte and Murray together would give opposing defensive coordinators with their unique blend of speed, versatility and vision. It would be the perfect opportunity for the Raiders to compliment a much-improved pass game with a dynamic duo in the backfield, all while keeping Forte and Murray fresh with a split workload.
Obviously this all depends on whether or not the Bears choose to re-sign Forte, but the potential is there for the Raiders to swoop in and scoop him up out of the free agency pool. If the opportunity arises, you better believe Reggie McKenzie and Co. will be blowing up Forte’s agent’s phone.
