Chicago Bears fans are buzzing after defensive end Austin Bookerâs explosive performance in the preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins. The young defensive standout has already made a major statement, finishing the game with 6 tackles, 3 sacks, and 4 quarterback hits. With a relentless motor and a passion for getting to the ball, Booker proved heâs ready to take on a bigger role in 2025.

Former Bears quarterback and analyst Jim Miller, who has seen his fair share of top-tier defensive players, called Booker âThe Poor Manâs Maxx Crosby,â noting how his aggression and pass-rushing ability stood out. Booker didnât just show up in the preseason; he dominated from start to finish, making plays that were impossible to ignore.
Bookerâs impact was undeniable, particularly when he relentlessly pressured the Dolphinsâ offensive line, not allowing any breathing room for their quarterback. His ability to break through blockers, both in rushing situations and on passing downs, could make him a key piece of the Bearsâ defense moving forward.
âAustin Booker is the real deal,â says Miller. "He has that high motor and a relentless edge that the Bears need. If he can keep this intensity, heâs going to be a game-changer for us this season.â
The Bearsâ defense, which has been under improvement over the past few seasons, is set to benefit significantly from Bookerâs performances. His versatility, speed, and edge-rushing ability make him a lethal force on the field. With his continued development and the solid foundation heâs building in this preseason, Booker could soon become one of the most feared pass rushers in the league.
This preseason showing might just be the beginning of a stellar campaign for Booker, who has shown he can not only disrupt the opponentâs offense but also provide leadership and energy to the entire defense. Head coach Matt Eberflus and defensive coordinator Alan Williams have surely taken note of Bookerâs potential, and fans can expect to see more of him as the regular season kicks off.
As the season approaches, Booker is not just looking to prove his worth in the starting lineup, but to be a catalyst for the Bears' defense to elevate to new heights. With a high-powered offense also being a focal point for the team, Bookerâs contributions on defense could make the Bears a serious playoff contender in 2025.
The Chicago Bears are building something special, and with Austin Booker leading the charge, this team could be on the brink of something great.