Jeffery Simmons is not the only Bears standout catching Ben Johnson’s attention

The Chicago Bears’ 34-17 win over the Seattle Seahawks was highlighted by the debut of defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. He put up six tackles, two for a loss, a sack and a pass blocked, proving exactly why the Bears traded away two first-round picks.

With Simmons on the field, the offensive line is now contending with a seemingly inevitable force. That opens up opportunities for other players on the line to rush the quarterback. Defensive end Montez Sweat took full advantage of Simmons’ presence, putting up three quarterback hits and a sack.

The Bears’ pass rush has been a point of controversy dating back numerous years. But it appears Chicago found a big part of the solution by investing inside. All eyes will be on Simmons whenever he is on the gridiron.

Head coach Ben Johnson’s focus was on taking in as much of the action as possible. He couldn’t miss Simmons’ immediate contributions. But a rising pass rusher caught his eye as well.

Bears’ Ben Johnson impressed with Austin Booker

In the win, defensive end Austin Booker put up three tackles and a pass breakup; one that immediately led to James Lynch’s first career interception. Furthermore, Booker managed to block a pivotal Seahawks field goal.

The defensive end has had to step up in a big way between Sweat’s suspension and Dayo Odeyingbo’s injury. Johnson couldn’t help but acknowledge the fruits of Booker’s efforts, via the head coach’s postgame press conference.

“He’s consistently attacking. He wants to affect the quarterback, make plays,” Johnson said. “We were knocking on the door with our field goal block unit. It was great to see us finally knock that door down and come away with one. He takes no plays off. When you play like that, good things will come. The more you continue to chip away with that mentality, the more they’ll come your way.”

Booker entered the night tied with Simmons for the team lead in sacks. While the defensive tackle may now have passed him, the pass rusher’s performance won’t soon be forgotten. He has only been earning more snaps and opportunities.

Simmons may draw the most attention across Chicago’s defensive line. Still, Booker’s arrow remains pointed up in his head coach’s eyes.

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