Ex-Bears linebacker Roquan Smith destroys his native team – NBC Sports Chicago

Following the Baltimore Ravens’ 37-3 victory over the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, Roquan Smith spoke with Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated to reflect on his trade from the Chicago Bears.

More than a year later, Smith shared his thoughts on the trade, saying, “Man, it’s pretty crazy thinking back to when I was initially traded,” Smith told Breer. He expressed mixed feelings about leaving Chicago, but acknowledged that staying with the Bears would not have given him the opportunity to compete for a title. Upon joining the Ravens, Smith discovered the talent and camaraderie on the team, which fueled his determination to compete for a championship.

Smith’s trade stemmed from a falling out with the Bears in the summer of 2022, following unsuccessful negotiation attempts for a contract extension. The Bears’ offer, later reported by Ian Rapoport, included unfavorable terms, leading Smith to request a trade. Accordingly, the Bears traded Smith to the Ravens at the 2022 NFL trade deadline, a move that initially shocked Smith but ultimately excited him to join a team contending for a title.

Transitioning from the Bears to the Ravens, Smith initially struggled to adapt, having been accustomed to the Bears’ revered linebacker culture. However, he gradually embraced his new environment, finding a deeper appreciation for his new team, and acknowledging the historic tradition he continues as a Raven. Under Smith’s leadership, the Ravens currently boast the NFL’s best defense, allowing an impressive 13.8 points per game this season. Smith himself leads the league in tackles, with 87 through nine weeks, while his teammate, Patrick Queen, ranks 15th with 75 tackles.

In hindsight, Smith now takes pride in playing for the Ravens, attributing his renewed success and fulfillment to the historic tradition and standard set by the team’s legendary players. He recognizes the significance of playing “lights out” on defense, embodying the relentless, suffocating style of play that defines the Ravens’ defensive philosophy.

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