Report: Former Georgia LB Roquan Smith ends holdout, agrees to rookie deal with Bears
By Adam Spencer
Published:
The only first-round pick from the 2018 NFL Draft who had yet to sign a contract was former Georgia LB Roquan Smith.
However, it now appears he’s ending his holdout and will join the Chicago Bears as soon as possible. The No. 8 overall pick has missed one preseason game, but won’t miss anymore, it seems.
Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the four-year contract will guarantee $18 million to Smith, with another $11 million available in bonuses:
Bears are giving LB Roquan Smith a four-year, guaranteed $18 million slotted deal, per the CBA. Deal should include about $11 million in form of bonuses.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 13, 2018
The Bears will be happy to have Smith in camp, and it’s probably safe to say that Smith is excited to get to work, too.
Smith’s holdout will bring more attention to him for the rest of the preseason, but he has the talent to back it up and make everyone forget about his lengthy absence.
Adam is a daily fantasy sports (DFS) and sports betting expert. A 2012 graduate of the University of Missouri, Adam now covers all 16 SEC football teams. He is the director of DFS, evergreen and newsletter content across all Saturday Football brands.
