Bears: Roquan Smith leaves for Baltimore

By Matthieu Pasquier — October 31, 2022 at 8:51 p.m.

The Ravens strengthen their defense by drawing a valuable asset from the side of Chicago.

According to NFL Media, the Bears and Ravens have reached an agreement that sends Roquan Smith to Maryland. According to ESPN, the compensation would be a second-round draft pick, a fifth-round pick and veteran AJ Klein.

The linebacker was in talks for a trade, but his contract complicated matters and he was tipped for the franchise tag in the offseason. He had himself asked to leave this summer, following difficult negotiations and a brief strike.

The linebacker will reinforce a Baltimore defense which has a rich history in the position, but has been in trouble since the start of the season. In 2022 he recorded 83 tackles including 4 for loss, 2.5 sacks, 2 interceptions and 3 batters. Chicago had selected him with the 8th pick of the 2018 draft.