LAKE FOREST, Ill. — Chicago Bears pass rusher Robert Quinn He insists he does NOT want to trade, despite having missed the entire offseason program of the team, which included mandatory minicamp.
Quinn claimed Wednesday, “I’ve been traded twice.” “You get tired moving. Although I felt I did a great job last year, I’ll continue to work hard to prove it.
“I expect to make it here, but I suppose if not, it’s beyond my control. I will just take it day-by-day and enjoy the company of the guys, and let life unfold as it pleases.”
Trade rumors swirled about the veteran, 32 years old, throughout the offseason as the Bears traded an outside linebacker Khalil Mack To the Los Angeles Chargers Two draft picks will be made while major roster changes are made. Quinn, who established the Bears single season record for sacks in 2021 with 18.5, stated that he didn’t expect to go anywhere but also noted the uncertainty of having to make a decision.
“Did I not just say it was a business?” Quinn added, “I thought last years gave me some comfortability to remain in the building.” “But again, my part is to smile and work hard, and let the rest take care of itself.”
Quinn is still on his contract for three years, and he has a base salary of $12.8million this season.
Quinn explained that he spent his offseason taking care his body and mentally in preparation for his 12th season. Although Quinn was not excused for his absence from mandatory minicamp, the edge rusher stated that he was happy to pay the penalties that came with missing three days of practice in June.
Wednesday was Quinn’s first practice with the Bears in this season.
The Bears placed a linebacker in Chicago ahead of the first practice at training camp. Roquan Smith on the physically-unable-to-perform list along with defensive lineman Sam Kamara. The team is currently at a deadlock over the extension of his contract. He was expected at training camp to be subject to a hold-in after reporting on Tuesday.
Matt Eberflus, coach, stated that Smith was subject to a physical at Halas Hall upon his arrival. However, Smith did not participate in the team’s conditioning test. Eberflus stated that Smith is indeed suffering from an injury.
Eberflus replied, “Yeah. Of course.” He’s on PUP. “So that’s where you find him.”
Smith rode a stationary cycle during Wednesday’s practice. Smith will still be part of the team, even though he is on the PUP List.
Eberflus stated that “he is in a good place.” He’s in a great spot. We had a wonderful conversation about his current situation. He’s focused. He is in meetings, and he’s wired into that way. Again, he is on PUP right currently, so he can’t get out and practice. But he’s wired.
Smith was unable to participate in the offseason program because he was waiting for a contract extension. Smith is expected to earn $9.7 million in the final year of his rookie contract and could be seeking a contract that’s closer to what other linebackers are getting. Fred Warner Shaquille Leonard Make, which is approximately $19 million annually.
Eberflus stated that Smith is not expected to participate in practices until he gets a new contract.
Eberflus stated, “Stay involved. Be a leader. Engage, which he is doing and will continue to do.” He’s a professional. He has been playing in the league for long enough. He’s an excellent player. We’re thrilled to have him in Chicago Bears. He’ll do it.”