FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Clearly, the New York Jets' fan base is eager to see Matt Forte in action.
Toward the end of practice on Sunday, Forte emerged from the locker room, walked past the crowded bleachers and received an ovation from the fans. He smiled.
Injured players usually don't get cheered, but Forte -- yet to practice because of a pulled hamstring -- isn't just any player. He was the Jets' biggest off-season acquisition, and he's being counted on to replace leading rusher Chris Ivory.
Now for the sobering dose of reality: Forte apparently isn't close to returning to practice on a full-time basis.