Since joining the Baltimore Ravens midway through the 2022 season, Roquan Smith has consistently demonstrated his value as the team’s defensive leader and a playmaker who impacts every game. Despite his high-level performance, Smith has faced criticism and was once again ranked behind San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner in ESPN’s latest top ten off-ball linebackers list, compiled by Jeremy Fowler with input from an <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/afc/”>AFC executive and an NFL defensive assistant. This ranking has sparked debate about Smith’s true standing among the league’s elite linebackers.

Contrasting Views on Smith’s Abilities

The AFC executive recognized Smith’s crucial role on the Ravens’ defense, acknowledging,

Roquan isn’t necessarily the most physically talented, but he’s very productive in both phases. He is the catalyst for their defense in the middle of the field and a guy you have to account for.

—AFC Executive

This evaluation highlights Smith’s importance in directing Baltimore’s defensive strategy and making critical plays. However, an NFL defensive assistant offered a more critical take, claiming that Smith

needs to get in better shape

and that he

looks a little sluggish at times.

—NFL Defensive Assistant

These comments contrast sharply with Smith’s on-field results and raise questions about the basis of such criticism, especially as Smith enters his eighth professional season with a reputation for reliable performance.

Valuable Acquisition Proving Its Worth

Since becoming a Raven, Smith has been viewed as a highly valuable acquisition following his trade from the Chicago Bears, often described as a bargain for his level of production. His consistent excellence earned him first-team All-Pro honors for the second consecutive year last season, underscoring his durability and skill.

Smith’s statistical impact is notable—his run-stop percentage of 5.6, which measures tackles at or behind the line of scrimmage on designed running plays, ranked second among all linebackers and led all top-ten players in this category. This highlights his ability to clog running lanes and disrupt opposing offenses effectively.

Excellence in Coverage Adds to Defensive Prowess

Beyond run defense, Smith’s coverage skills have continued to grow. One high-profile example was his interception of Patrick Mahomes last season, demonstrating his range, anticipation, and athleticism. Performances like this contradict assertions about his conditioning, showing instead a player who maintains sharpness and agility throughout the season.

Pro Football Focus noted a marked improvement in Smith’s coverage ability as the Ravens simplified defensive schemes late in the season, observing,

It was really a split between the first 10 weeks and then Week 11 onward. When they simplified their defense in their coverage schemes down the stretch, Roquan really benefited from that too,

—Pro Football Focus Analyst

Smith achieved an 81.8 coverage grade from Week 11 onward, ranking among the league’s best, a testament to his adaptability and high football IQ.

Looking Ahead: Roquan Smith’s Role in the Ravens’ Future

As the Baltimore Ravens prepare for the upcoming season, the question of whether Roquan Smith can be recognized as the top linebacker in the NFL remains open. His proven playmaking ability, leadership in the middle of the defense, and steady improvement make him a strong candidate to earn greater recognition and influence more games moving forward. The ongoing debates about his ranking may fuel even more focused efforts from Smith to redefine expectations and solidify his legacy as a vital force on Baltimore’s defense.