Matt Forte expects to make preseason debut against Colts

Dec 28, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte (22) catches a pass against the Minnesota Vikings in the third quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings win 13-9. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte plans to get his first taste of preseason action this Saturday, when the team visits the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium.

"Yeah, I think so," Forte said, per ESPN's Jeff Dickerson. "I mean, it's up to them too, but nobody goes out in the first preseason game to show what they have if they're eight years in. The second and third game is when I get most of the work."

Forte, 29, did not play in the Bears' preseason opener versus the Miami Dolphins last Thursday. There's a delicate balance between protecting star players and preparing them for the regular season, and the Bears are trying to walk that tightrope with Forte.

The eighth-year veteran of the league says there's still a lot he can learn by playing in the preseason exhibitions.

"I think it is beneficial for me to play," Forte said via ESPN. "I mean, not the whole half or whole game, but you do have to get used to blocking guys full speed, breaking tackles full speed and getting used to hitting people and being hit. You don't want to go into the season where you are kind of rusty and haven't done any full speed tackling in preseason."

Forte is in search of a fourth consecutive 1,000-yard season and a fresh contract this year.

(h/t ESPN)