3 reasons Chicago Bears need to extend Roquan Smith

The Chicago Bears got some big news this morning when they saw a message from Roquan Smith demanding a trade. Smith noted in his trade request that he got a take it or leave it to offer from the front office, and he does not feel as though he will be taking it any time soon.

So, the Bears are in a spot where they will either offer him a new contract or at least start to listen to offers for trades. While both options are on the table, there is a good reason to extend Roquan Smith.

3. Chicago Bears are extending a leader

The Bears are not just extending another linebacker or another player, they are extending a leader, not just on the defense, but on the roster. When Ryan Poles was introduced as General Manager, the two players he pointed to when it comes to sending the right message in the locker room were David Montgomery and Roquan Smith.

Poles said that from afar he had known of their leadership ability. During training camp, Matt Eberflus called Roquan Smith a leader of the defense. He also said he expects Smith to remain a leader even when he is on the PUP.

Then, Jaylon Johnson was asked about his absence and he noted that it is more than just losing 1 out of the starting 11. They are losing the leader of the defense, and the person that makes things go.

This is not just about paying a linebacker. It is about paying someone who leads by example and leads in a vocal manner. This is about the team setting a tone for what type of players they want in the locker room moving forward.