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‘I Think He Needs To Get in Better Shape’: Ravens Linebacker Gets Blunt Assessment From NFL Assistant

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Jul 17, 2025 9:40 AM ET

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith is widely regarded as one of the NFL’s top defensive players, recently earning a second-place ranking among off-ball linebackers. However, not all evaluations of his game have been glowing, as an anonymous NFL assistant coach offered a blunt critique of Smith’s conditioning ahead of the 2025 season.

The critique stems from moments during the 2024 season when Smith appeared sluggish, particularly in pass coverage. Opposing offenses, such as the Kansas City Chiefs, exploited these lapses, exposing vulnerabilities in Baltimore’s defense. Despite these challenges, Smith’s leadership and ability to anchor a struggling unit earned him first-team All-Pro honors.

Sep 5, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith (0) during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

One contributing factor to Smith’s mixed performance last year was the lack of support alongside him. The departure of Patrick Queen and an underwhelming season from replacement Trenton Simpson left Smith shouldering an outsized burden. Even with these obstacles, he showcased his trademark instincts and playmaking ability, remaining a key catalyst for the defense’s late-season resurgence.

Smith’s ranking as the league’s second-best linebacker underscores his elite status. Coaches and scouts continue to praise his sideline-to-sideline speed, tackling, and leadership. However, the criticism of his conditioning points to areas for growth, especially as he aims to elevate Baltimore’s defense into a top-tier unit this season.

Baltimore Ravens Linebacker Roquan Smith Receives Honest Review From NFL Assistant

Sep 29, 2024; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith (0) walks along the sidelines during the second half against the Buffalo Bills at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images

Just recently, an anonymous NFL assistant dropped a blunt assessment of Smith. This is detailed in an analysis by Jeremy Fowler for ESPN.

One NFL defensive assistant says he believes Smith can elevate his game by improving his conditioning. Two of Smith’s votes were at No. 10.

“I think he needs to get in better shape,” the assistant said. “Looks a little sluggish at times.”

Heading into 2025, Smith is expected to benefit from improved chemistry with Simpson and a bolstered defensive lineup. The Ravens remain optimistic that their star linebacker will address these critiques and maintain his standing as a dominant force in the league.

Sep 5, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Justin Watson (84) runs the ball past Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith (0) during the second half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Smith’s blend of skill, leadership, and resilience ensures he will remain a central figure for the Ravens. With the new season approaching, his response to both praise and criticism will be pivotal in shaping Baltimore’s success.