10 most valuable returning Chicago Bears from 2021

2. Roquan Smith

The quarterback of the defense becomes the most valuable player on that side of the football. The two players that Ryan Poles and Matt Eberflus have gone out of their way to praise this offseason are David Montgomery and Roquan Smith.

They have emphasized that these two held their own on the field but conducted themselves in positive manners off of the field as well. They show up to work and lead by example day in and day out.

While there are questions about Montgomery and his contract, it is all but a lock that Smith will sign a new deal in the coming summer months. While Montgomery is reliant on his line to make plays, Smith is reliant on blowing up lines to make his plays. He can step out of the structure, or away from players around him to make impact decisions on defense in ways that a running back cannot.

With that in mind, there are not many more valuable pieces that Ryan Pace left over for the Chicago Bears. Matt Eberflus has a great track record with linebackers, and Smith should be in store for his best season yet.