Linebacker Roquan Smith and the Baltimore Ravens have reportedly agreed in principle to a five-year, $100-million extension on Tuesday, making him the highest-paid player in NFL history at his position, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
The deal includes $45 million that is fully guaranteed, with $60 million total in additional guarantees. The full terms of the contract have yet to be confirmed. Smith represented himself in the negotiations.
Smith will earn $20 million per year, making him the highest-paid inside linebacker in the league. He topped Shaquille Leonard of the Indianapolis Colts who signed a five-year, $98.5-million extension before the 2021 season.
The fifth-year linebacker was traded to the Ravens from the Chicago Bears on Oct. 31 for a 2023 second-round and fifth-round pick. He has helped Baltimore’s defence jump from 20th (22.9) to 2nd (14.7) in the NFL in points per game.
He is a two-time All-Pro selection, making the second team in 2020 and 2021 seasons. Despite that, this season is the first time that the Montezuma, Ga., native has been selected to the Pro Bowl.
He finished this season with 169 tackles, 4.5 sacks and three interceptions.
By coming to terms on this extension with Smith, the Ravens avoid having to decide between applying their franchise tag him or impending free agent QB Lamar Jackson.
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