The Chicago Bears boasted one of the best defensive groups in the league last year. It seems the time has come for linebacker Roquan Smith to take that next step in the 2019 NFL season.
Smith was able to establish an integral role in this vaunted ears' defense as a rookie. Marc Sessler of NFL.com feels he could be poised for his first career trip to the Pro Bowl:
Khalil Mack, Akiem Hicks, Kyle Fuller and Eddie Jackson all made the Pro Bowl a year ago. It's no stretch to suggest Smith will be next after logging 121 tackles, five sacks and 12 pressures as a first-round rookie. He made leaps as the season crept along, boasting tangible pass-coverage skills and playing one of his most impressive games all year in Chicago's tight playoff loss to the Eagles. Smith's finest days are ahead.
The Bears made quite the investment in Smith when they took him with the eighth overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Although his start in Chicago had been delayed by contract disputed, he was quickly able to justify his selection after emerging into one of the most promising, young linebackers in the NFL.
There is no question that Smith and his teammates flourished under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. They are hoping to keep that momentum going under new defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano. While Pagano may have some big shoes to fill, he will have the benefit of an entire offseason to get all his players assimilated.
Both Smith and linebacker Khalil Mack had been late arrivals to Chicago last year. Fortunately, this will provide the Bears with ample time to work on their scheme moving forward, which could very well result in Pro Bowl honors for the second-year linebacker.
Follow Us
Subscribe