National Football League

Marion Barber decides to retire

Published Mar. 23, 2012 1:00 a.m. ET

Ross Jones

Chicago Bears running back Marion Barber has decided to retire, the team announced on its website Friday.

Barber, who backed up Matt Forte in 2011, ran for 422 yards and six touchdowns. Barber’s 2011 season will be remembered for an unfortunate fumble in overtime against the Broncos in Week 14 that cost them the game and crushed their playoff hopes.

“I want to thank everyone who gave me the opportunity to play, and I’m very thankful to have had the chance to suit up for two of the NFL’s most storied organizations,” Barber said on the Bears' team website.

Barber played six years with the Cowboys and was released last offseason. Although Barber never ran for more than a 1,000 yards in a season, he was selected to play in the Pro Bowl in 2007.

The Bears signed running back Michael Bush to a four-year, $14 million contract on Thursday. The signing didn’t sit well with Forte.

“There’s only so many times a man that has done everything he’s been asked to do can be disrespected!” Forte tweeted. “Guess the good guys do finish last.”

Forte has been adamant since last season that he wanted a long-term deal, but the franchise has had other plans. Forte was slapped with the franchise tag and will be paid $7.74 million.