NFL Training Camp 2018: 2 Unsigned rookies that will be just fine

Roquan Smith, LB, Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears began full training camp on Friday. Of course, rookie first-round pick Roquan Smith wasn’t with the team. The importance of the potential impact of Smith can’t be overstated. It’s why the Bears selected him No. 8 overall. In fact, Bears coach Matt Nagy has expressed  frustration regarding Smith’s absence, via the Chicago Sun-Times:

"“It’s a part of the process… It’s not unrealistic, but again, it is what it is. So Roquan is a great kid, a great football player, and when the time comes for him to be here, he’ll be out here and he’ll get those reps back.”"

Smith’s athleticism is second to none on the Bears defense. What Smith brings off the bat is coverage ability. In the NFC North, the Bears have to deal with the passing attacks of Aaron Rogers, Matt Stafford and now Kirk Cousins. Smith’s aggressive and twitchy style is something defensive coordinator Vic Fangio had with Navarro Bowman while with the 49ers.

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Comparably, Smith will dominate when asked to jam and cover and act as the free roam linebacker opposite Danny Trevathan. The 6-1, 236-pound rookie is at his best when he’s asked to cover tight ends and running backs. Additionally, he’s smooth and decisive when dropping back into zone coverage. Smith is lightning quick when asked to play sideline-to-sideline. No matter when he steps into the field, Smith will excel in Fargio’s defensive scheme.