CHICAGO — Bears linebacker Roquan Smith In a written statement, he stated that he requested a trade after contract negotiations between him and the organization were stopped.
Smith wrote a statement, which was posted on social media by NFL Network’s Tuesday. ESPN has confirmed that these messages are valid.
After Smith stated that he had been working on an extension since April, the 25 year-old linebacker said that Smith’s new front office regime “doesn’t value” him here.
Smith wrote, “They have refused to negotiate in good will.” “Every step of this process has been ‘take or leave’. I would not sign the deal that was sent to me. It would be bad for my health and for the whole LB market.
In 2018, Smith was drafted eighth overall by the Bears. Since then, he has had 14 sacks and at least 101 tackles in every season. Smith was expected to make $9.7 million in his final year of his rookie contract. He was then placed on the physically unfit to perform (PUP), when he arrived at camp in July.
Smith said that the Bears’ front office “trying to exploit me” and that he was forced to ask for a trade to allow him to play for an organization that values his contributions.
Smith indicated his confidence in Chicago and a new deal. In April, he participated in voluntary workouts and mandatory miniaturecamp. The linebacker stated that he wanted to play for the Bears his entire career.
Ryan Poles, the first-year general manger, expressed his desire to negotiate a contract extension for Smith prior to the start of training camp. He also addressed the team about not having yet executed a new agreement for Smith.
Poles stated that his feelings for Roquan have not changed since July 26th. “I love both the player and the person. This won’t change. One thing I’ll ask you all is that I know I’m likely to get lots of questions. I don’t want to talk about contracts, so I just wanted to make sure that we addressed the issue. Nothing changes in terms of my feelings towards him.”
Smith has been at Halas Hall each day during training camp. He is often seen riding a stationary cycle during practice. While Smith was on the PUP list, Coach Matt Eberflus made note of his expectations for Smith in July.
Eberflus stated, “Keep involved, be a leader and be engaged. This is what he’s doing” He’s a professional. He has been in the league for a long time. He is an excellent player. We are excited to have him as a Chicago Bear. He’ll do it.”
Smith made an apology to Bears fans, but expressed little faith in negotiations turning around.
Smith stated that she has not had the opportunity to speak to McCaskey’s family and may be able to salvage it, but for now, Smith doesn’t see a way back to the organization she truly loves.