NFLPA Community MVP Matt Forte discusses importance of giving back

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte caught up with 120 Sports to discuss what earning the NFLPA community MVP award for Week 3 means to him.

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte caught up with 120 Sports to discuss what earning the NFLPA community MVP award for Week 3 means to him.

The honor recognizes players who are making a positive impact on their local communities.

Forte, who regularly interacts with Chicago youth through activities such as flag football, said it means a lot to him to get recognition for the work he has done off the field.

Forte, 29, told 120 Sports that he tries to expand his influence beyond football by talking with the children about the importance of education and helping them continue to grow in a positive way.

“I look up to positive people,” one student said about Forte. “All my life I’ve been around negativity, and you can’t look up to that. That’s why I respect Matt so much for what he does, and I know it’s out of the kindness of his heart because that’s dedication.” 

Forte also recognizes the importance of being a mentor to children who may not have one.

“I just want to be a positive male role model for those guys that may or may not have parents in their home, or both parents, or may not have a father figure in their life,” Forte said.

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The star running back feels that athletes have a responsibility to give back to to their communities consistently and develop positive relationships with the younger generation.

“A lot of guys have come from communities that need help and you don’t really see a lot of guys go back and give back,” Forte said.

On the field, the season hasn’t been as positive as Forte or the Bears would have hoped. The team is 0–3 after losses to the Packers, Cardinals and Seahawks.

Forte said the team is focused on improving every day and expects a better outcome against the Raiders (2–1) on Sunday.

#http://www.120sports.com/video/v152464028/1on1-with-matt-forte

- Xandria James