Roquan Smith Thrilled to Join Contender Ravens After Trade from Bears
Former Bear Finds New Home in Baltimore
Roquan Smith, who had spent his entire NFL career with the Chicago Bears, was traded to the Baltimore Ravens in the middle of last season. Despite the initial shock, Smith quickly found himself delighted to be playing for a contender.
The Ravens are currently considered one of the top favorites to win the Super Bowl, while the Bears have struggled since trading Smith, accumulating a dismal 2-16 record, the worst in the NFL during that time. Smith expressed his relief at leaving Chicago behind.
“Man, it’s pretty crazy thinking back to when I was initially traded,” Smith shared with Abert Breer of SI.com. “It was bittersweet for me, knowing Chicago and its loyal fanbase. However, if I had stayed there, I honestly wouldn’t have had the opportunity to compete for a title anytime soon. When I arrived in Baltimore, it took me a couple of weeks to truly grasp the depth of talent and the incredible individuals on this team. The Ravens consistently bring in exceptional people. Reflecting on the chance to compete for a championship year after year with the talent we have, it brings me immense joy. I know my career is not going down the drain by playing somewhere where I’m not truly competing for a title.”
Smith firmly believes that the Ravens are the franchise he was destined to play for.
“That’s something I take great pride in,” Smith emphasized. “We live and breathe it every single day. It starts from the top and permeates throughout the entire organization. I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of such a remarkable team.”
The 26-year-old linebacker recently signed a lucrative five-year, $100 million contract with the Ravens, positioning him to play the prime of his career in Baltimore, exactly where he wants to be.