Bears linebacker Roquan Smith practiced in part Saturday for the first time since beginning his “hold-in” amid a contract dispute. While he was limited to individual drills, it was a significant step after missing the first 15 practices.
Smith is scheduled to speak to the media Saturday for the first time since April.
As he enters the final season of his five-year rookie contract, Smith is looking for a massive extension. If he doesn’t get one, he’ll have to play for $9.7 million and become an unrestricted free agent in March.
Smith and general manager Ryan Poles said in the offseason they wanted to get an extension done, but negotiations have been fruitless and turned bitter once the “hold-in” lasted deep into training camp.
Smith ripped Poles for trying to take advantage of him with “take it or leave it” offers in a public letter asking to be traded Aug. 9.
Poles responded by saying he still hoped to sign Smith to an extension, but would do whatever was in the Bears’ best interest if it became necessary to trade him.
Poles also said negotiations have been complicated because Smith doesn’t have an agent and represents himself.
“There’s emotions involved, and it’s tough,” Poles said. “It’s a very unique situation that we’ve had to deal with, and I thought we’ve done a pretty good job, which again that’s why I’m a little disappointed we’re at this spot.”
Once Smith went public with his displeasure, the Bears rescinded their goodwill gesture of putting him on the physically unable to perform list the next day. That meant Smith had to practice or face team discipline, including fines.