The Chicago Bears wrapped up their first preseason game with the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, tying 24-24. Even though the majority of starters didn't see the field, Bears fans were excited to see what the offense could do. Be that as it may, some of the backups on defense showed why fans shouldn't overlook them.
On Sunday, starting defensive ends Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo didn't play. This meant Austin Booker and Dominique Robinson were given the start. While both Booker and Robinson played well, Booker had the better day. Seeing the second-year defensive end dominate should excite Bears fans for what's to come this season.
Austin Bookers 1st three plays of this drive. He’s constantly getting pressure on the QB. Gotta work on his control a bit but the athleticism is there. #DaBears #Bears #ChicagoBears pic.twitter.com/5e2PHIxqkX
— Clay Harbor (@clayharbs82) August 10, 2025
Bears DE Austin Booker Impresses in Preseason Opener
Bears fans have high hopes for Booker entering his second season under new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. The 2024 fifth-round pick has a relentless motor and all the tools to be successful in the NFL, which is why Chicago drafted him last year. Unfortunately, he didn't do much as a rookie because he lacked the size.
That said, after a year of development, the former Kentucky Wildcat spent this offseason adding muscle mass to help him be more successful. Although it's only one preseason game, the early returns seem good.
Booker finished his day with four tackles, three sacks, four quarterback pressures and a forced fumble. During one drive in the second quarter, he was in the backfield on three consecutive plays. Those plays resulted in a sack and two quarterback pressures.
Despite the 22-year-old putting together a strong performance, fans shouldn't get overly excited just yet. Last preseason, Booker stood out and then didn't do much in the regular season. Still, being optimistic about this performance is important.
A lot is different for Booker going into year two. As mentioned earlier, he has put on more muscle, which will help in multiple areas. First, it will allow him to be more effective with his power rush, meaning he should be able to get to the QB more often.
Moreover, the Dennis Allen prototype for defensive ends is long, stalky guys with power. Booker already partially fit that stereotype at 6'4' with 33 1/2 inch arms; he just needed the extra muscle for power.
With that being said, it's not a wonder why people think big things could be in store for him this season.