During the NFL offseason, there’s always buzz about what kind of shape players are in. A few weeks ago, a video of Deebo Samuel looking “slow” during a walkthrough drill at minicamp went viral. Now, a report claims that one NFL assistant believes Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith is out of shape, and his teammate isn’t happy about it.
Kyle Van Noy Fires Back at NFL Assistant Over Comments on Roquan Smith’s Conditioning
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler released a report in which he claimed an anonymous NFL assistant said Ravens Linebacker Roquan Smith is out of shape.
An anonymous NFL assistant on Ravens LB Roquan Smith:
“I think he needs to get in better shape. Looks a little sluggish at times.”
(Per @JFowlerESPN) pic.twitter.com/LZTtKp12Af
— Ravens Nation 𝙇𝙄𝙑𝙀 (@LIVERavenNation) July 17, 2025
“I think he needs to get in better shape. Looks a little sluggish at times,” the NFL assistant told Fowler.
It’s a strange report considering Smith looked anything but out of shape last season, totaling 154 tackles, 4 TFLs, 1.5 sacks and one interception en route to earning first-team NFL All-Pro honors.
Regardless, Smith’s teammate, Kyle Van Noy, did not taking the accusation lightly, firing back at Fowler’s report on X.
Hey J Fowler tell that NFL assistant to EAD cuz agent Zero is on some shit and you are a B for hiding ! Put your name on it!!!
— Kyle Van Noy (@KVN_03) July 17, 2025
The profanity laced post from Van Noy notably defended Smith, and called for the anonymous NFL source to put their “name on it.” While Van Noy’s post wasn’t exactly family-friendly, his point is valid. Reporters often share information and quotes from anonymous sources who frequently criticize players behind the scenes.
Van Noy believes that if the NFL assistant who made the comment about Smith stands behind it, they should say it publicly instead of hiding behind anonymity while spreading negativity online.
Despite what the NFL assistant thinks, Smith has little to worry about. In his three seasons with the Ravens, he’s been named first-team All-Pro three times and has earned All-Pro honors five times in his seven-year career.
Smith is undeniably one of the premier defensive talents in the NFL and is widely considered the best inside linebacker in the game. His dominance has been consistent over the years, in large part powered by his athletic prowess and speed at the position.
The claim from Fowler’s anonymous source lacks credibility and doesn’t align with Smith’s proven track record. Still, it’s refreshing to see Van Noy fiercely defending his teammate and pushing back against unfounded criticism.
