Chicago Bears linebacker Roquan Smith was holding out during training camp and preseason and even requested a trade, however now he says all of the drama surrounding his contract scenario is behind him. Smith and the Bears consider the 2 events can mend any issues in order to have the best season possible.
Smith spoke not too long ago concerning the contract points, via the Chicago Sun-Times: “I am not targeted on that, if I am being utterly sincere. My focus is on making this 12 months the most effective 12 months I can after which go from there. I do not need to look ahead an excessive amount of to the long run or something like that.”
Hs says his precedence is to assist the Bears have a strong season.
“I am simply targeted on having the most effective 12 months I can with my teammates and taking part in the sport I like. That is what means probably the most to me,” he mentioned.
Smith is able to play any place and produce his all to wherever he strains up. “I flourish in any protection. It do not matter. Simply line me up and inform me a play, and I am there,” he mentioned.
When requested if he was fascinated with the whole lot that occurred throughout coaching camp and the preseason, Smith mentioned, “It is already behind my thoughts. It simply got here to the entrance if you simply talked about it.”
Chicago common supervisor Ryan Poles has the identical expectations for Smith as Smith has for himself.
“He is participant. That is by no means modified. I’ve religion that he will have 12 months. … You may have disagreements and you then’ve gotta come again collectively and be teammates. That is what I anticipate,” Poles mentioned, via The Athletic.
The crew has a brand new head coach — Matt Eberflaus — whose model may make for extra alternative for Smith.
“It is undoubtedly candy,” Smith mentioned of the 4-3 protection. “It lets you play in area extra. And I really feel like that is one in all my largest attributes: taking part in in area, imaginative and prescient.”
Smith will get his chance to show the contract issues are behind him when their common season kicks off on Sept. 11 at dwelling towards the San Francisco 49ers.
