Bears Reap Rewards from Roquan Smith Trade with Rising Talents Dexter and Sewell
In light of the Chicago Bears’ upcoming clash with the Baltimore Ravens, it’s time to reassess the 2022 trade that sent linebacker Roquan Smith to Baltimore. General manager Ryan Poles made headlines during his inaugural year, signaling a willingness to overhaul the roster to align with his vision for the team.
Poles’ Bold Moves Reshape the Bears
Poles’ aggressive approach began with the blockbuster trade of Khalil Mack to the Los Angeles Chargers. This was followed by significant in-season moves, including the departures of Robert Quinn, who had just set the franchise record for single-season sacks, to the Philadelphia Eagles, and Roquan Smith to the Ravens. Initially, the Smith trade drew criticism; his impact on the Ravens was immediate, seemingly transforming their defense into the league’s best overnight. Meanwhile, the Bears struggled through a dismal season, finishing with an NFL-worst record of 3-14, leading many fans and analysts to label Poles as having been “fleeced” in the deal.
Breaking Down the Trade Terms
To understand the trade’s implications, let’s examine the specifics. The Ravens acquired Smith, who was subsequently given a lucrative five-year, $100 million contract extension. In exchange, the Bears received linebacker A.J. Klein, who was waived just weeks later, as well as second and fifth-round picks in the 2023 NFL Draft. These selections transformed into defensive tackle Gervon Dexter and linebacker Noah Sewell.
A Strategic Exchange with Mutual Benefits
At first glance, the trade appears to be a win-win for both franchises. The Ravens, in a win-now mindset, gained a significant upgrade at linebacker, bolstering their defense and positioning themselves for a Super Bowl run over the next couple of seasons. The Bears, on the other hand, embarked on a full rebuild, acquiring critical draft capital and freeing up salary cap space.
However, one has to wonder if the Ravens have truly capitalized on the trade. Despite their strong performance post-trade, they have yet to reach a Super Bowl, with their best playoff run resulting only in an AFC Championship appearance. Currently sitting at 1-5, the Ravens face a precarious season, which raises questions about the long-term viability of Smith, who will turn 29 next season. How much longer can they justify his hefty contract?
Emerging Stars in the Bears’ Lineup
On the flip side, Poles has effectively utilized the draft picks secured from the Smith trade. Gervon Dexter is rapidly emerging as a cornerstone of the Bears’ defensive line, showcasing his potential as a formidable player. Meanwhile, Noah Sewell was enjoying a breakout season under the guidance of the new defensive coordinator before suffering a concussion in Week 6, which sidelined him for Week 7.
As the Bears continue to navigate their rebuilding process, the fruits of the Roquan Smith trade may very well shape the future of the franchise. While the Ravens aim for immediate success, the Bears seem focused on building a sustainable and competitive roster for the long haul. The narrative surrounding this trade is far from over, and its true impact will unfold as the seasons progress.
