Kahlil

Bell

He’s being tendered at the $1.26 million level. Bell reportedly turned down a two-year offer that included roughly $500,000 guaranteed. He’ll most likely re-sign with the Bears, but could draw interest on the heels of his solid performance in the absence of Matt Forte last season. Bell rushed 68 times for 314 yards after Forte was lost for the year in Week 13, adding 19 catches for 133 yards.

Tendered at the right of first refusal level, Bell had already signed a waiver to participate in the Bears’ offseason program. Bell performed well in Matt Forte’s absence last season, notably rushing for 123 yards on Christmas night against the Packers, but was pushed to third on the depth chart when Chicago signed Michael Bush. Barring injury to the Bears’ top two backs, Bell won’t be a factor in fantasy leagues.

This should expedite Marion Barber’s release, a move that would free up $1.7 million in cap space. Bush’s addition also gives the Bears significant leverage in contract talks with unsigned franchise player Matt Forte. Even if Forte threatens a holdout, the Bears can sit comfortably with a starting-caliber back under contract, and Kahlil Bell at No. 2 on the depth chart. Bush isn’t a dynamic runner, but he’s got quick feet for his size and is a bull to bring down. He’s also an adept receiver and pass blocker. Bush’s addition may cut into Forte’s 2012 fantasy value. He’s definitely a candidate for short-yardage and goal-line work.

Bell has yet to ink his $1.26 million tender, but will sign an “offseason-workout agreement” to protect against injury suffered at the Bears facility. Tendered at the right of first refusal level, Bell has until April 20 to sign an offer sheet with another club, but is not expected to do so. His deep-league value took a fatal hit when the Bears signed Michael Bush last month.

He’s as good as gone after restricted free agent Kahlil Bell’s late-season emergence as a viable insurance policy for Matt Forte. Turning 29 in June, Barber carries a $2.25 million cap charge in addition to a $1.9 million base salary.

For now, Matt Forte is the Bears’ starter and Michael Bush is No. 2. “We’re concerned,” Smith said of Bell. “Kahlil can’t fumble the ball that much, as well as he played, especially in that Green Bay game. He put the ball on the ground twice. You can’t do that.” Bell had three fumbles on 79 carries last year.

Splitting reps with Marion Barber, Bell outplayed his backfield mate in the first half. He was de-emphasized in the second, however, as Barber settled into a groove. Bell did exactly what Chicago needed today, providing an excellent change-of-pace behind the bruising Barber. Unfortunately for fantasy owners, that doesn’t equal big numbers. Bell won’t be a compelling play against Seattle’s stout run defense in Week 15.

Barber’s absence leaves Kahlil Bell as the primary ball-carrier and potential three-down back. “There are bigger concerns I have, and Kahlil is not one of them,” coach Lovie Smith said. "... I’m excited about the opportunity he has.” A candidate for 20+ touches, Bell is now a top-25 fantasy option for Week 16.

Barber has an extra day to get back on the practice field with the Bears playing in this week’s only Sunday game, but all signs are pointing toward Kahlil Bell operating as Chicago’s lead back against the Packers’ 12th ranked run defense. Bell is Rotoworld’s 34th ranked running back for Week 16, while Barber is 38th.

Marion Barber (calf) is listed as doubtful and won’t be active. Bell’s only backup will be undrafted rookie Armando Allen, who just came off the practice squad this week. The Bears have shown a willingness to use Bell heavily in the passing game, so he should be very attractive for PPR leaguers in particular this week. Bell is not a big-time talent and has less appeal in standard leagues that emphasize yardage and touchdowns more.