The Chicago Bears pulled off a big surprise last month when they returned to the 2024 Draft for a fifth-round pick from Buffalo. With this they selected Kansas running back Austin Booker, adding much-needed depth and upside to their defensive line. The fact that he draws comparisons to Maxx Crosby is certainly noteworthy. He only started one season in college but had eight sacks and 12 tackles for a loss. For someone as inexperienced as he is, he showed a natural feel for rushing the quarterback that’s hard to ignore.
Many experts rated Booker in the third round. After last season, he was expected to return for another year. It was a surprise when he declared for the draft. Had he stayed, it was possible he could finish in the top 50 in 2025. So, it’s possible the Bears could have gotten themselves a hidden gem or a cake that he needs to stay in the oven a little longer. Getting him to where he needs to be requires a good plan on the part of the coaches. Booker told Jeff Joniak on the Bears Weekly podcast that both defensive coordinator Eric Washington and defensive line coach Travis Smith haven’t wasted any time drilling him hard.
That includes pointing out all their mistakes.
Austin Booker couldn’t have landed in a better situation.
Washington earned a reputation as one of the NFL’s best defensive line coaches over the past decade with Carolina and Buffalo before joining the Bears. He has worked with some of the best, including Julius Peppers, Charles Johnson and Von Miller. If anyone knows how to turn a young player into a professional, it’s him. But don’t ignore Smith. He is a backup to Rod Marinelli, who was an excellent defensive line coach for many years. He was with the Las Vegas Raiders when they drafted and developed Maxx Crosby and did a good job with Gervon Dexter last season.
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Everything necessary is ready for Austin Booker. He has two excellent coaches to guide his development and solid veterans like Montez Sweat and DeMarcus Walker to learn from. He has the ability to play at this level, no one disputes that. Size? Length? Athletics? He has it all. It all comes down to how hard he is willing to work to reach his full potential. Expand your inventory of pass rush moves, add some extra muscle, and you have the makings of a problem quarterbacks won’t like.
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