3 Roquan Smith replacements for the Chicago Bears in 2023

Lorenzo Carter would be a viable free agent option for the Chicago Bears to replace Roquan Smith

Back in the 2018 NFL Draft, another Georgia standout made his presence felt and thus was drafted fairly high (third round) by the New York Giants — Lorenzo Carter, a former running mate of Roquan Smith, has enjoyed a nice start to his NFL career as well.

Now with the Atlanta Falcons and a free agent in 2023, Carter looks like a very strong candidate to replace Smith — and at a much cheaper price. Carter signed just a 1-year deal worth $3.5 million with the Falcons this year and has played well for Atlanta. So far, he’s totaled 22 tackles, three for a loss, 2.5 sacks, six quarterback hits, two passes defensed, an interception and a defensive touchdown.

If the Bears want a weak side linebacker to help primarily against the run (a significant weakness this season) then Carter is a great addition. His area of strength is certainly against the ground game, and Pro Football Focus would agree, giving him a grade of 65.2 against the run this year.

By the time he’s a free agent next year, Carter will still be 27 years old with a few solid years left in him.