LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) - Matt Forte won't be returning to the Chicago Bears for a ninth season.
The two-time Pro Bowl running back announced on Instagram Friday morning that the team informed him this week it will not offer him a contract for next season.
The team confirmed it, calling him one of the "all-time great Bears."
He will be an unrestricted free agent and can sign with any team beginning March 9.
Drafted in the second round by the Bears in 2008, Forte emerged as one of the most successful running backs in franchise history.
But he is 30 years old and the team has a long list of needs following a six-victory season.
Forte said his "only regret" is not winning a Super Bowl with Chicago.