Report: Bears place franchise tag on RB Matt Forte

The Chicago Bears have named running back Matt Forte as their franchise player, according to ESPNChicago.com. The sides continue to work towards a new contract.

The sides can continue negotiating until mid-July, according to the report. Given the tag, though, Forte will make a base salary of $7.7 million.

Forte rushed for 997 yards last season with three touchdowns.