Bears rookie linebacker Roquan Smith is among six NFL first-round picks that ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. believes will make an immediate impact this season.
"Smith could be a contender to lead the NFL in tackles as a rookie," Kiper wrote. "Just look at the NFL's leading tacklers from 2017. They're all three-down middle linebackers who never have to leave the field. That's Smith, who will slot in next to Danny Trevathan to form a speedy and physical duo."
Last season Smith was voted first-team All-American, won the Butkus Award as the nation's best linebacker and was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year.