Bears linebacker Roquan Smith remains deadlocked in a contract dispute with the organization. But head coach Matt Eberflus believes Smith will travel with the team at Seattle for their second preseason game.
Considering Smith has been a “hold-in” and hasn’t practiced all summer, it’s unlikely that he’ll play.
“Is he in the building? Yes. Is he engaged? Yes,” Eberflus said.
Outside of that, Eberflus wasn’t privy to any contract negotiation updates between Smith and general manager Ryan Poles.
#Bears coach Matt Eberflus said LB Roquan Smith, who is still seeking a new contract and has asked to be traded, will travel to Seattle for their preseason game. He won't play. Eberflus described him as "engaged.”
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 16, 2022
The Bears removed Smith from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list last week, which means that they’re free to fine up. But Eberflus remained mum about any potential disciplinary action taken against Smith.
“If we discipline a player or fine a player, all that, we’re not gonna discuss that up here with the media or with the public,” Eberflus said. “It’s gonna be in-house, internal.”
While things have been rocky with Smith and the front office amid negotiations, Eberflus said he feels good about his relationship with Smith.
“I would just say this with all the players: You’re always working on relationships,” Eberflus said. “I know I say that a lot. But it’s so important, with Roquan and any other player. It’s important to keep the relationship and communication open and on the table, and that’s what we’re trying to do day-to-day with all of our players.”
