The Chicago Bears have a big problem on their hands when it comes to linebacker Roquan Smith, who requested a trade from the organization last week after contract negotiations between the two sides seemed to stall out.
Due to the rift with the Bears organization, he has not participated in team activities thus far throughout training camp, and as we get closer to the regular season we should see some sort of resolution between the two, whether that be in a trade or a potential new contract
In the meantime, Bears head coach Matt Eberflus has now revealed a plan for Smith as they head into their second preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Smith will travel to Seattle with the team but will not play in the game.
Luckily for Bears fans, it isn’t all doom and gloom, as Eberflus described Smith as “engaged” during practice despite his wait for a potential trade from the team.
#Bears coach Matt Eberflus said LB Roquan Smith, who is still seeking a new contract and has asked to be traded, will travel to Seattle for their preseason game. He won't play. Eberflus described him as "engaged.”
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 16, 2022
Smith’s importance to the Bears organization cannot be overstated, as he has been the heart and soul of the Bears defense ever since being drafted in the first round in 2018, being named to the All-Pro second team in back-to-back seasons.
Bears general manager Ryan Pace said that while he would like to keep Smith, he will ultimately do “what’s best for the Chicago Bears.”
It certainly seems like keeping him would be in the best interest of the Bears organization if they are trying to compete this upcoming season, but it is plausible that a team can send an offer that the organization can’t refuse with Smith being in the final year of his contract.
