The Smith File
- 8th overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft
- Two Second-Team All-Pro selections, 2020, 2021
- One SEC Defensive Player of the Year award, 2017
- One First-Team All-SEC selection, 2017
Smith's Trade Request Shook Chicago
Roquan Smith was a Chicago Bear forever, until he wasn't.
Prior to the 2022 NFL season, Smith requested a trade from the team that drafted him in the top 10. In his letter to the fans, Smith pointed to the history of incredible Bears linebackers that will live eternally in the Windy City. He felt he was not treated the same as his predecessors, despite his two All-Pro selections.
"Unfortunately, the new front office regime doesn't value me here," he said. The linebacker felt initial negotiations not only hurt him financially, but other linebackers trying to make a living in the league.
Smith is the cog to Chicago's defensive machine and one of the lone stars on the roster. If/When he is dealt, the ending of his Chicago tenure will warn future administrations about treating homegrown stars with respect.