Roquan Smith landing spots: Where could Bears All-Pro go next?

Roquan Smith is one of the best inside linebackers in the NFL. He has already recorded a massive 524 total tackles in just four seasons in the league while also being selected as an All-Pro linebacker twice. He has also chipped in with 14 sacks and five interceptions.

Roquan Smith is currently entering the final year of his contract with the Chicago Bears ahead of the 2022-23 NFL season. After reportedly failing to come to an agreement on a long-term contract extension, Roquan Smith has requested to be traded to a new team. Here are five potential landing spots that make sense for the All-Pro linebacker.

#1 - Los Angeles Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers have used the 2022 NFL offseason to focus on upgrading their defense. They signed one of the top free agents in this year's class, cornerback JC Jackson, and also acquired edge rusher Khalil Mack in a trade with the Chicago Bears.

The @chargers defense is going to be fun to watch this season 🍿

@jbbigbear x @FiftyDeuce x @DerwinJames x @MR_INT https://t.co/2NuFX4FYU0

While the Chargers defense is now loaded with talent, inside linebacker is probably still their weakest position group. They could change that by trading for Roquan Smith and continuing their trend this year of adding top-tier talent to their defense.

#2 - New England Patriots

Versatility has always been an important quality that Bill Belichick looks for when analyzing players and deciding who he wants to add to the Patriots roster. Roquan Smith is one of the most versatile linebackers in the NFL, so Belichick may be interested in acquiring him.

Roquan Smith has shown that he's solid in all areas of defense, including run stopping, pass coverage, and blitzing. The Patriots defense is solid all around, but would benefit greatly from adding a proven player in the middle of it, which they are currently missing.