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Bears Optimistic About Defensive Lineman Austin Booker's Growth
Despite Injury Setback, 23-Year-Old Booker Shows Promise for Chicago's Defense in 2026
Published on Feb. 13, 2026
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The Chicago Bears enter the 2026 NFL offseason with optimism about the promising development of defensive lineman Austin Booker, who showed significant progress in his second year despite missing time due to a preseason knee injury. Booker's increasing production and versatility on the defensive line have caught the attention of the Bears' coaching staff, signaling potential growth that could strengthen Chicago's defense in the coming seasons.
Why it matters
Booker's upward trajectory is an important asset for the Bears as they approach a crucial offseason. His combination of youth, growing skills, and quality coaching support suggests he could play a significant role in Chicago's defensive plans moving forward, potentially bolstering their defense heading into the 2026 season and beyond.
The details
Booker's second year began with a knee injury during the preseason, sidelining him until November. Upon his return in Week 9, he quickly made an impact with a strip sack against the Cincinnati Bengals. Although he played in only 10 games, he ranked third on the team in sacks, accumulating 4.5 total. Throughout the season, Booker consistently pressured opposing quarterbacks, recording 29 total pressures, including 16 hurries and eight hits. His increasing production from his rookie year indicates an upward trend.
- Booker had 2 sacks, 10 total pressures, 5 hurries, and 3 QB hits in 2024.
- By 2025, Booker's numbers grew to 4.5 sacks, 29 pressures, 16 hurries, and 8 QB hits.
- Booker suffered a knee injury during the 2026 preseason, sidelining him until Week 9.
The players
Austin Booker
A 23-year-old defensive lineman for the Chicago Bears who has shown promising development and growth despite a setback due to a preseason knee injury in his second year.
Jeremy Garrett
The Chicago Bears' defensive line coach, who has experience coaching elite pass rushers like Myles Garrett and Josh Allen-Hines with other NFL teams, providing an important advantage for Booker's growth.
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
