The Baltimore Ravens made a trade on Monday before the Tuesday trade deadline, acquiring inside linebacker Roquan Smith from the Chicago Bears in exchange for a second round pick, a fifth round pick, as well as inside linebacker A.J. Klein. He will look to make an immediate impact for a defense that has hit its stride in recent weeks.
Smith was out at practice for the first time on Wednesday, sporting a new number in No. 18. He was asked about the number change during his media availability, and said he’s excited to start somewhere new with a new number, saying it’s “pretty sweet”.
"New start, new number" pic.twitter.com/9V4ReSAFmf
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) November 2, 2022
“New start, why not a new number? Starting somewhere new, new start, so I’m excited. I was drafted in ’18 as well, so it’s pretty sweet.”
The addition of Smith makes the Ravens defense significantly better, especially with the return of outside linebackers Tyus Bowser and David Ojabo. It will be fun to watch what Smith does in defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald’s defense, as he’s an unique chess piece that can move around the field and play at a high level.