Matt Forte will officially miss the Chicago Bears' clash with the San Diego Chargers on Monday night.
The team ruled out the running back Saturday due to a right knee injury, coach John Fox announced. Forte left last week's contest after taking a big hit in the third quarter. He did not practice all week.
It's a big loss for the Bears' offense. Forte has accounted for 32.0 percent of the team's scrimmage yards this season, the highest percentage of any running back in the league.Â
Forte's injury isn't believed to be long-term, but he'll miss at least one week.Â
In his stead, rookie Jeremy Langford will get the start. The running back has compiled 80 rushing yards on 27 carries (3.0 YPC) and two touchdowns. Langford displays good vision and power, but isn't nearly as elusive as Forte and isn't proven in the passing game.
"I'm excited. I'm very excited," Langford said on Friday, via ESPN.com. "But at the same time, I have to relax and take it one day at a time, especially because it's on Monday Night Football. I just need to do my best to take advantage of the opportunity."
Expect Jay Cutler to utilize a quick pass attack to Alshon Jeffery with Forte out.
That pass attack, however, will be hindered with receiver Eddie Royal (left knee) also out. It's Royal's second missed game of the 2015 season.
Bears center Hroniss Grasu is doubtful.
