New England Patriots receive high grades in 2018 NFL Draft first round
Chicago Bears No. 8: Georgia LB Roquan Smith
The Chicago Bears notoriously rely on their defense to carry the load. Last season, their defense struggled but their defense was on the right track. With offensive-minded head coach Matt Nagy taking over, many people thought the Bears would look to that side of the ball. Instead, Chicago looks to continue shoring up their defense.
With the No. 8 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, the Bears selected Georgia linebacker, Roquan Smith. Smith was dominant as the leader for the Bulldogs defense. In 2017, he was a consensus All-American, also receiving the Dick Butkus award and being named SEC Defensive Player of the Year.
Smith totaled 137 tackles, registering 14 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. He also added two passes defended, two fumble recoveries and one forced fumble. Smith is a little undersized, but he more than makes up for it with his instincts and athleticism. His football instincts are off the charts, which combines with good character, work habits and leadership.
The Bears have always had dominant linebackers leading their defense. Smith has a chance to be that next linebacker in the footsteps of Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs in recent years. Smith will step right into an every-down role with the Bears.