The Bears and Matt Forte have been entangled in a contract dispute for more than a year. The negotiations hit an impasse during last year's training camp and the dispute lingered through the regular season and now into this offseason. Forte is yet to sign his franchise tender, although he admitted Friday he will play in Chicago this season.

"I don't think I really have a choice, do I?" Forte said to a group of reporters at a charity event Friday. "Yeah, I'll be here."

Although the regular season is not in doubt, Forte has yet to commit to reporting to Bears training camp. He previously skipped OTAs and minicamp this offseason. If he and the Bears do not agree to a long-term contract extension, Forte could play this season under his franchise tender. He will be guaranteed $7.749 million in 2012 if he signs his franchise tender.

Players will report to Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Ill., July 25 for the Bears' training camp.

For more on Forte and the Bears, head over to the SB Nation blog Windy City Gridiron and SB Nation Chicago.