New England Patriots guard Logan Mankins knows a little of what Matt Forte is going through. And he has some thoughts on what Forte should and shouldnt do.
Mankins was hit with New Englands franchise tag in the 2011 offseason, after going through a testy 2010 offseason with a tender offer dispute that led to his holding out for the first seven games. The Patriots placed the tag on him and he signed the franchise tender for 10 million in July and a six-year deal two weeks later.
Barring an unforeseen breakthrough in negotiations, Forte will be feeling the thud of the Bears franchise tag this offseason. He has given veiled indications that he will hold out if he gets the tag instead of a long-term deal.
Mankins wouldnt recommend holding out.
Maybe if youre tendered as a restricted free agent, Mankins told CSNChicago.com on Tuesday. But not if youre franchised. Thats just too much money.
Fortes franchise figure would approach 8 million for the 2012 season, less than the Bears were offering as guaranteed money in a multi-year package and less than half of what Fortes camp is seeking in guaranteed money with a long-term deal.
Mankins suggestion: Be patient. Keep talking and working on that long-term deal.