Linebacker Roquan Smith has been the glue of this Bears defense over the last couple of seasons, which is why the idea of Chicago facing the top-ranked Cardinals without him was a terrifying thought.
After suffering a hamstring injury in last Thursday’s game against the Lions, it was expected that Smith would miss Sunday’s matchup against the Cardinals, and potentially more time.
But Friday’s practice brought a pleasant surprise, as Smith returned to practice and, according to 670 the Score’s Mark Grote, “looked great.” Smith has been dubbed questionable — a game-time decision — against the Cardinals.
Bit of a twist in #Bears practice today. Roquan Smith was out there (hamstring injury). Looked great. Officially questionable for Arizona game. pic.twitter.com/w9Tt7rLyLN
— Mark Grote (@markgrotesports) December 3, 2021
If Smith is indeed healthy enough to suit up for the Bears, it would be a huge boost for this defense. Smith has again been the best player on this defense, alongside outside linebacker Robert Quinn, and they’re going to need Smith if they stand any chance of pulling off an upset against Arizona.
But while Smith is officially questionable, it’s not a guarantee he’ll suit up Sunday. If there’s any doubt about whether he’s ready, Chicago shouldn’t chance their best defensive player further aggravating his hamstring, especially given those soft tissue injuries can be nagging.
It’s certainly a storyline worth monitoring as the Bears head into a challenging game against the top team in the NFC.
