Michael Bush Signs With The Chicago Bears

In a curious move, former Oakland Raiders running back Michael Bush has chosen to sign a four year contract with the Chicago Bears.

The deal, worth $14 million with $7 million of that guaranteed, is a strange one considering the Bears already have an elite starter in Matt Forte. For the Bears it makes sense as Bush is very capable and could probably handle short yardage situations better than Forte. There’s also the fact that Forte wants a big money long term deal and should the gamble with BUsh pay off it could save Chicago millions in the long term if they can re-sign Forte to a lesser contract.

For Bush, the deal is a bit odd. He was a backup his entire career in Oakland as partner to Darren McFadden when he himself is capable of being a starter. Why go to a situation where at best you’re in a committee with a running back who will see more playing time than you? In the end, it may turn out that the deciding factor was the contract itself – a big chunk of guaranteed money and a decent long term deal in the hope that Forte either gets injured or moves on.

Whatever the reason, the Bears just got themselves a very capable and exciting new offensive weapon. Coupled with new wide receiver Brandon Marshall, this team is doing plenty to help fix the offensive woes they have experienced over the past year or two.

To stay up to date on the latest from NFL Spin Zone, become a fan on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.