One thing you can safely say about Austin Booker is that he doesn’t carry himself like a 5th round pick. The rookie from Kansas is a confident young man. He calls himself a “sleeper” and promises that NFL teams have no idea what is coming once he gets on the field this fall. He insists he is already stronger than he was earlier this year and is learning all sorts of new tricks from teammates and coaches. However, the best way for him to excel at the NFL level is by learning how to beat pro tackles. He’s been getting a strong education in that department by the sound of things.
Booker was asked at his recent presser which tackle, if any, has been a challenge for him during training camp. The rookie didn’t need long to answer: it was Braxton Jones.
The consistent buzz out of camp is that Jones has looked good. His athleticism is still as effective as ever, and his ability to handle the bull rush has improved. Booker’s commentary suggests he’s mastered utilizing his long arms and hands to keep pass rushers under control. That is great news for quarterback Caleb Williams ahead of his first season.
Constantly beating tackles in practice isn’t the best thing for a rookie. He needs to get tested against somebody good at his job. Jones is definitely that. While he may not be elite, the guy has established himself as a top-15 tackle in the NFL. Getting that out of a 5th round pick is stealing. Learning how to beat him one-on-one will help elevate Booker to reach similar achievements. The Bears have high hopes for him. Like Jones, he has the natural athleticism and feel for his position. It’s merely about building his strength base and expanding his toolbox.
Austin Booker will get his first opportunity to prove himself on Thursday when the Bears head to Canton for the Hall of Fame game against the Houston Texans. The rookie figures to get substantial playing time as the starters will sit out. Coaches are eager to see him in game action. A strong performance might compel them to give him more opportunities with the starting defense, just like they did with Jones two years ago.
