Matt Forte will not re-sign with Bears

Matt Forte has been a thorn in the Detroit Lions' side since joining the league in 2008. But the two-time Pro Bowler announced on Friday via his Instagram that the Chicago Bears have decided not to re-sign him.

"I was informed earlier this week from the GM that they will not be attempting to re-sign me in free agency," Forte posted on the social media site Friday morning.

The Bears look to be transitioning to their 2015 fourth-round draft pick -- and former Michigan State Spartan -- Jeremy Langford in the backfield. Langford rushed for 537 yards and six touchdowns in his rookie season.

In Forte's eight year career with the Bears, he averaged 1,075 rushing yards per season and 4.2 yards per carry. He rushed for more yards (1,211) and scored more rushing touchdowns (7) against the Lions than any other team.

Forte immediately becomes one of the most sought-after running backs in free agency, joining the likes of Doug Martin, LeGarrette Blount and Tim Hightower among others.