Report: Bears finalizing deal with rookie Smith after holdout

The Chicago Bears and rookie Roquan Smith are finalizing an agreement that will end the contract dispute between the team and the first-round linebacker, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter. The veteran reporter noted that the deal should be completed by the end of Monday.

Smith was the last first-round pick left unsigned. His deal will be worth $18 million over four years, added Schefter.

The former Georgia standout has yet to join his team for training camp in part because of concerns about the financial impact the NFL's new helmet rules, and their subsequent penalties, could have on him.

It was believed Smith's representatives were seeking a clause that would secure their client's guaranteed money, which could be voided by Chicago if the linebacker were to be suspended.

Smith should step right into a starting role in what is an underrated Bears front seven.

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