Ravens Acquire Star Linebacker

The Chicago Bears weren't expected to be a contender at all in 2022, and it led them to a trade request from Roquan Smith earlier in the off-season, but nothing materialized, and leading into the deadline, it was expected that a move be made, especially after the team traded away Robert Quinn to the Philadelphia Eagles just days ago. Today, all of that came to fruition, as the Bears have a deal in place to send Smith, the two-time All-Pro linebacker to the Baltimore Ravens.

Source: #Bears LB Roquan Smith is traded to the #Ravens.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 31, 2022

The Ravens needed an upgrade on the defensive side of the ball, and they've found a new star and a leader for this linebacker group, and with an acquisition at receiver, this team could be one of the Super Bowl favourites in the AFC in 2022. Through eight weeks, Smith has 83 tackles, 2.5 sacks and 2 interceptions, and with his consistent play over the past few years, this is a massive deal for Baltimore, who now become incredibly tough to stop on both sides of the ball. 

In compensation for Smith, the Bears are receiving a second and a fifth round pick, and given what they got for Quinn in recent days, it looks like they are stockpiling assets to get young QB Justin Fields some help, as well as upgrading the defence with young players.

Photo Credit: Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports