4 Bears Who Earned a Roster Spot in the Hall of Fame Game
By Cem Yolbulan
DE Austin Booker
This is not a surprise. Bears fans have been expecting big things from their prized rookie ever since reports of him impressing in training camp surfaced.
The 21-year-old pass rusher out of Kansas was Chicago's fifth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. His high-pressure rate and sack numbers had caught Chicago's eye ahead of the draft. Booker showed everyone why with his performance on Thursday night.
Every snap #Bears rookie Austin Booker played against the Texans in his debut. pic.twitter.com/36jA9OimwN
— ImBearingDown (@ImBearingDown) August 2, 2024
It's important to note that it came against Houston's second and third-string offensive line, but Booker looked the part of an NFL defender. He demonstrated good athleticism, speed, and power while consistently getting good pressure. At one point, he helped Byron Cowart get a sack on his best play of the night.
On defense, rookie defensive end Austin Booker got good pressure and helped Byron Cowart notch a sack. Booker showed good get-off, bend, and power against the Texans' second and third-string offensive line.
Chicago is still looking for a starter opposite Montez Sweat. Currently, the favorite is DeMarcus Walker but Booker may be making a case for himself at training camp and preseason. Even if he isn't named the starter in Week 1, he has cemented himself as a rotation player on the edge.