Ravens Welcome Reliable Linebacker From Bears To Fortify Defensive Core

The Baltimore Ravens have added another linebacker to the mix, agreeing to a deal with the Chicago Bears for Roquan Smith.

According to CBS NFL Insiders Jonathan Jones and Josina Anderson, the Ravens sent their second and fifth-round picks together with A.J. Klein for the two-time All-Pro linebacker ahead of the NFL trade deadline on Tuesday, November 1.

Smith also becomes the second high-profile defender that the Bears have traded away.

Last October 26, Chicago sent veteran pass-rusher Robert Quinn to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a fourth-round draft pick.

The 32-year-old NFL veteran had been with the Bears since April 2020, signing a five-year $70 million deal as a free agent.

The Ravens have acquired Roquan Smith, someone who has registered 83 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and two interceptions this NFL season.

Since entering the league in 2018, the former Georgia product has missed only four games.

Also since arriving in the NFL, Smith has been a playmaker since arriving in the league, amassing over 600 tackles, 16.5 sacks, one forced fumble, seven interceptions, and one touchdown.

Curiously, Smith is in the final year of his rookie contract as he is set to become an unrestricted free agent after this NFL season.

"I think he's a very good football player. I love the kid. I love what he's done on the field, which makes me really disappointed with where we're at right now. I thought we'd be in a better situation, to be completely honest with you," Bears general manager Ryan Poles said about Smith in the preseason via Chicagobears.com.

"With that said, we can't lose sight that this isn't about one player. My job is to build a roster that's going to sustain success for a long period of time. At the end of the day, we've got to do what's best for the Chicago Bears."

In Baltimore, Smith joins a mix that includes former first-round selection Patrick Queen, as well as Josh Bynes and Malik Harrison.

As for the Bears, the exit of Smith leaves them with young linebackers Sterling Weatherford, Jack Sanborn and free-agent signing Nicholas Morrow.