The Baltimore Ravens have signed linebacker Roquan Smith to a five-year extension worth $100 million. This deal includes $45 million fully guaranteed and $60 million in total guaranteed money. Smith becomes the first inside to sign a deal worth $100 million. His goal last offseason was to sign a deal like this with the Chicago Bears but held out when he felt they low-balled him. He eventually returned to the franchise but made it clear he wanted to be traded. Before the NFL Trade Deadline, the Chicago Bears traded Smith to the Baltimore Ravens. This extension will also impact the Lamar Jackson contract negotiations.
Ravens agree in principle with LB Roquan Smith to a 5-yr, $100M deal, making him highest paid LB in NFL history. (via @RapSheet) pic.twitter.com/6ZInAijUPa
— NFL (@NFL) January 10, 2023
In his career with the Chicago Bears and Baltimore Ravens, Roquan Smith has recorded 451 solo tackles, 694 total tackles, 18.5 sacks, one forced fumble, 23 passes defended, and eight interceptions that he returned for 132 yards and one touchdown. Smith has been one of the best linebackers in the NFL since he was drafted in 2018. The Ravens have rewarded him for his production and hope to have him anchoring their defense for at least five more seasons.
With this extension handled, the Ravens can franchise tag quarterback Lamar Jackson and work toward a long-term deal with him in the offseason. Jackson has expressed some frustration but put off the discussion until after the 2022-23 NFL season. The Baltimore Ravens will play the Cincinnati Bengals in the Wild Card Round on Sunday at 8:15 p.m. EST.
