National Football League

Matt Forte explains his absence from voluntary workouts, Piccolo Awards

Published Apr. 29, 2015 12:12 p.m. ET

share

facebookxredditlink

foxsports

Matt Forte, who is entering the final year of his contract, took to Instagram on Tuesday to explain his absence from voluntary workouts, which were also posted in an article on ChicagoBears.com.

"I'm not there because I'm finishing my third week of rigorous speed training, which we do not do at Halas Hall," the running back posted. "This was already my plan as of season's end last year because after evaluating myself (which all players should do) I felt like I was missing something. As for missing voluntary minicamp, there are OTAs and mandatory minicamp which I will be present for."

Forte also talked about why he was absent from the Brian Piccolo Awards ceremony, which were held at Halas Hall in Tuesday. Forte won the Piccolo Award for the second time, the first coming in 2008.

"As for the Piccolo Awards, this training trip was planned long before our offseason schedule was released to us," wrote Forte, who won the award which is given by Bears players to teammates they feel best exemplifies Brian Piccolo's sense of humor, dedication, courage, loyalty, and teamwork. “I value this award greatly as it is my second time winning this prestigious award. Unfortunately, my decision to work on my body and craft in preparation for the season did not coincide. I've come to realize that this year along with each reception or carry might be my last in a Bears uniform. So with that being said it's all LOVE Chicago."

Despite his physical absence, Forte wrote a message of appreciation and gratitude that senior director of special projects Patrick McCaskey read at the ceremony.

Brian Piccolo signed as a free agent with the Bears 50 years ago. He died of cancer in 1970 at the age of 26, and was the subject of the movie "Brian's Song."

(h/t Chicago Bears)

share

Get more from National Football League Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more

in this topic

National Football League