An NFL official confirmed a letter was sent to Forte's replacement earlier this week notifying the seven-year veteran he has not been in compliance with the league's media relations policy.
Barber did not address the media Sunday after the 13-10 overtime loss in Denver. He made two critical mistakes in the game, falling out of bounds late in regulation and fumbling in overtime.
Barber, who routinely declines interview requests, avoided the media Wednesday but vowed to speak Thursday. If he fails to talk by Friday, he is expected to be assessed a $10,000 fine, according to a source. If Barber maintains his silence during the practice week and doesn't speak to reporters after Sunday's matchup with the Seahawks, he would face an additional $20,000 fine.
Coach Lovie Smith was asked about Barber's decision to avoid the media.
"That's the least of my concerns really, right now,'' Smith said. "I assume most of our guys answer when they're supposed to and meet with you guys, but I have other things on my mind.''
Smith, no doubt, is focused more on Forte's right knee getting healthy. Forte suffered a Grade 2 sprain of the medial collateral ligament during a Dec. 4 loss to the Chiefs. It is considered a four-week injury and he was expected to be sidelined at least two weeks. Forte even admitted he wouldn't be ready to go against the Seahawks ? the same team he sprained the MCL in his left knee against in 2009.
"Injuries just don't heal overnight,'' Forte said.
But Forte has done everything possible to speed up the process. He said he has used ex-teammate Tommie Harris hyperbaric chamber every night.
"Yes, it helps,'' Forte said. "It helps with soreness and swelling and all that stuff.''
Skeptics wondered how motivated Forte would be to return considering his ongoing contract issues. Realistically, he could be back for the Dec. 25 game with the Packers if the Bears are still in the playoff hunt.
"I didn't think there was anybody thinking I wasn't (motivated),'' Forte said.
The Bears need him to alleviate some of the pressure on quarterback Caleb Hanie, although Barber rushed for 108 yards against the Broncos.
Barber continued to take the first-team reps during Wednesday's practice with Kahlil Bell behind him.
vxmcclure@tribune.com
Twitter @vxmcclure23
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