Chicago Bears: What did Pace, Nagy see in each 2018 NFL Draft pick?

Linebacker Roquan Smith, Georgia

"“Roquan … that’s a no-brainer.” -Pace"

That pretty much sums up the Smith pick. There was no doubt in my mind that, after Quenton Nelson went sixth, the Bears were going to take the former Bulldog if he wasn’t taken by the Bucs at no. 7.

Smith is going to start right away. That’s the kind of player you want in the top 10, no matter what. Forget upside. Forget “projects.” Forget anything except a day-one starter when you’re picking that high — that’s what you get with Smith.

He’s a no-nonsense football player. He gets the job done. Smith is not only good against the run, but he can cover as well. Nagy talked about his versatility when asked about how he gives offenses problems:

"“He doesn’t struggle in the run game … Offensively, you look at a guy who can cover tight ends and can also go ahead and cover running backs … when you can do both of those things, offensively, you’ve got to figure out another route to go.”"

What is really cool to learn about Smith, if you didn’t know, is that he is not only one heck of a linebacker, but another high-character guy. Nagy raved about his ability on the field, but also gushed about his attitude off the field.

"“Very, very passionate about the game of football … mature … everyone talks about sideline to sideline. He’s violent when he hits you. He’s a leader … He’s the same way at dinner as what you see on the field.”"

I’m not sure I want to be part of that dinner if he’s running around slamming party guests to the ground, but hey, it is what it is.

Terrible joke.

Next: Veterans in danger following NFL Draft

I am thrilled to see Smith in a Bears uniform, plain and simple. Knowing what he can do as a player, a leader … it’s exciting. I haven’t been as pleased with a draft class in quite some time, but it’s clear that the Bears brass and leadership knew exactly what they were doing.