Roquan Smith to Be a 'Full-Go' at Bears Practice Wednesday
By Michael Luciano
Chicago Bears linebacker Roquan Smith was a surprise inactive for their game against the Minnesota Vikings with what was deemed a "personal issue."
While fear outside the organization regarding Smith's state of mind was running wild, head coach Matt Nagy announced on Wednesday that Smith has returned to the team and will be a full-go at practice and is likely to play in their matchup with the Oakland Raiders in London.
#Bears HC Matt Nagy says LB Roquan Smith will be a full-go at practice today.
— NFL Update (@MySportsUpdate) October 2, 2019
Smith was drafted eighth overall in the 2018 draft out of Georgia. While overshadowed by Leighton Vander Esch and Darius Leonard last year, his 121 tackles and five sacks put him at near Pro Bowl level in Year 1 on a deadly Bears defense.
Behind Khalil Mack and Eddie Jackson, Smith is one of the most important players on one of the best units in the league, and any extended period of time that Chicago has to play without him could be devastating.
#Bears reaction to the Roquan Smith situation:
— Mark Potash (@MarkPotash) October 1, 2019
Trevathan: "[I'm] probably not as concerned as you guys [media]. I'm just here to work and have my guy back."
Mack: It's in-house ... we know he's going to get better and we look forward to him getting back out there with us."
While the first concern with Smith should be his mental health and if he is in a good place in that regard, it's good to see him back on the field.