The Chicago Bears have placed the franchise tag on running back Matt Forte [[ for-TAY ]]. The one-year tender offer for Forte is expected to pay him $7.7-million for the 2012 season. The Bears have until July 15th to work on a long-term deal for Forte, and at that point he'd be playing under the franchise tag for the remainder of the season. The 26-year-old Forte rushed 203 times for 997 yards and three touchdowns in 12 games and was selected to his first Pro Bowl last season. He also caught 52 passes for 490 yards and a score. Forte missed the final four games due to a right knee injury.