Chicago Bears rookie Roquan Smith is one of the higher remaining unsigned rookies and the situation doesn’t appear anywhere close to resolved.
Changes in the NFL CBA has made signing draft picks an easier process. However, this hasn’t been the case for Roquan Smith and the Chicago Bears. The rookie linebacker remains unsigned and has missed a good chunk of training camp.
For awhile, it was unknown why the two sides were unable to come to an agreement. That changed this weekend with a report by the Chicago Tribune.
This is a unique situation that has to do with the NFL’s rules regarding helmet to helmet hits. Basically, Smith wants his guaranteed money protected should he be suspended for illegal use of his help.
The Bears are holding fast as they appear unwilling to set this type of precedent. Someone is going to have to back down before this thing is resolved.
These negotiations might have bigger ramifications with interests from both the Player’s Association and the League involved. Obviously, the players don’t want to see their money taken due to a suspension.
However, the league is feeling pressure to take some of the risk out of the game.
The Bears and Smith are caught in the middle with on-field ramifications forth coming. Chicago is counting on Smith to be a major contributor. He was drafted to provide some leadership and explosiveness to the middle of the defense.
It’s going to be difficult for Smith to crack the starting lineup by the first week of the season if he doesn’t report to training camp soon. The Bears have veteran Danny Trevathan and Nick Kwiatkoski ready to take the field.
Kwiatkoski is reportedly enjoying a strong training camp has he looks to hang onto his starting job. He’s not only completing against Smith, but could take over for Trevathan should Smith steal a starting spot of his own.