NY Jets: Team setting sights on Matt Forte in free agency

The NY Jets are in the market for a running back and rumors are suggesting that they are setting their sights on Matt Forte once the free agency period begins.

With Chris Ivory bolting via free agency to the Jacksonville Jaguars and the fate of Bilal Powell still unknown at the time of this writing, the Jets will have an entirely new backfield heading into next season. Unlike last offseason, the Jets won’t have a plethora of finances to go on a spending spree this time around.

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The Jets will need to make smart decisions in free agency and make sure to bring in key players that are ready to contribute. One such player is Forte who is looking for a new home after spending eight seasons with the Chicago Bears.

Considering the Jets will more than likely have an entirely different looking team next season on both sides of the football, it would be a smart move to bring Forte into the mix. If healthy, he could be the dynamic running back they need to keep clicking on all cylinders offensively.

Of course the Jets aren’t the only team interested in his services.

The Miami Dolphins also have their name in the hat in hopes of acquiring him via free agency. As reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL.com, here is his official tweet on the latest regarding Forte:

Among the teams interested in veteran RB Matt Forte: The #Jets and #Dolphins. His market will heat up when the other RBs sign.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2016

While the Dolphins continue to make splashy moves in free agency, the Jets would be a logical new home for Forte. He’s use to playing in the cold weather from his time in Chicago and could very well light things up for the Jets thanks to everything he brings to the table. He would be a great weapon in offensive coordinator Chan Gailey’s arsenal to run and receive in his spread offense.

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In his career, Forte has totaled 8,602 rushing yards on 2,035 rushes for 45 touchdowns. Forte also doubles up as a great receiving option as in his career, he totaled 4,116 receiving yards on 487 receptions for 19 touchdowns.