Matt Forte will not return to the Bears next season

Matt Forte will not return to the Bears next season.

Running back Matt Forte will not return to the Chicago Bears next season, he announced on Instagram on Friday.

“Despite my wishes, my days as a member of the Chicago Bears have sadly come to an end,” Forte wrote. “I was informed earlier this week from the GM that they will not be attempting to re-sign me in free agency.” 

Forte, 30, will now explore the free agent market this off-season.

“I will remain forever grateful for my time spent in Chicago and being able to play for an organization with such a rich history,” Forte continued. “My only regret is not being able to win a Lombardi trophy for the best fans in all of sports. I'm excited about the next chapter of my NFL career. But, Chicago will always be home. God Bless and Bear Down!”

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A post shared by Matt Forté (@mforte22)

The Bears later released a statement thanking Forte for his time in Chicago.

Statement from #Bears GM Ryan Pace on the departure of Matt Forte. pic.twitter.com/vGEeNNu7oC

— Eli Kaberon (@EKaberon) February 12, 2016

In eight seasons with the Bears, Forte rushed for 8,602 yards, gained 4,116 yards as a receiver and scored 64 total touchdowns. He made the Pro Bowl in 2011 and 2013, and is considered one of the NFL’s top all-purpose backs.