Roquan-Smith wants to leave the Bears after contract negotiations fell through, but anyone outside of Chicago who tries to help the star linebacker get his wish is at risk of NFL punishment. Although Smith has publicly anticipated a relocation ahead of the 2022 season, the league reminded teams Monday that any contact with Smith, or anyone claiming to represent the Pro Bowler, constitutes tampering, according to NFL Mediaand would justify “stricter discipline than that … imposed in previous years”.
The “strict” warning comes a week after NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell disciplined and castigated the Dolphins for “unconscionable” prior communications with Tom Brady and Sean Payton, who were under contract to other teams. It also comes days after ProFootballTalk reported that “a person claiming to represent Smith has called other teams to assess potential business interest.” Smith himself has reportedly not received clearance from the Bears to explore a trade, even after declaring on social media his request to be processed, and currently does not have a certified NFL agent.
Because Smith, who skipped practice at Bears training camp, remains under contract through 2022, Chicago technically doesn’t have to allow trade talks between the linebacker — or an agent, if he hires one. officially one – and other teams.
Smith previously said he’s been trying to get a new long-term deal with the Bears since April, but team executives “left me with no choice but to ask for a trade that allows me to play. for an organization that truly values what I bring to the table.” The 25-year-old former first-round pick, selected 8th overall in 2018, is set to receive $9.7 million for the final year of his rookie contract. He is widely considered the centerpiece of Chicago’s defense and just completed a 2021 All-Pro season that included a career-high 163 tackles.
