2009 Fantasy Football Player Profile-Matt Forte

RB Matt Forte, Chicago Bears

2008 Stats: 1238 rushing yards, 477  receiving yards,  12 total TDs
Projected 2009 Stats: 1004 rushing yards,  677 receiving yards,  10 total TDs
Projected Fantasy Round: 2nd Round
Running backs to be picked ahead of Matt Forte: Adrian Peterson, LaDainian Tomlinson, Michael Turner, etc.

Fantasy Outlook:

Why you should draft Matt Forte:  Forte appears to be the next multi-dimensional  fantasy back that has the ability to rack up huge rushing and receiving yards.   Last season, Forte had 63 receptions out of the backfield, and he now has the luxury of having Jay Cutler behind center to get him the ball.  In his rookie year, Forte had seven games where he had at least five receptions, which is not too shabby for a 1200 yard rusher.

Why you may want to stay away from drafting Matt Forte: With Jay Cutler as the new quarterback in Chicago, the Bears will likely become more of a passing team.  Consequently, Forte could see a significant drop in his carries.  Last season, Forte was limited to under 60 rushing yards in five contests. 

Bottom Line: Forte should be viewed as a No.1 fantasy running back, due to his versatility.   He likely won’t make it out of the second round in most fantasy drafts.