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Chicago Bears’ Ryan Poles casts doubt over Austin Booker’s Week 1 status
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With the Chicago Bears opting not to make any major investments in their pass rush, the franchise is relying on their already established players to lead the charge. That plan becomes much more worrisome if Austin Booker isn’t on the field.
Booker has been held out of practice since picking up a groin injury in joint practices with the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bears have labeled him week-to-week, but general manager Ryan Poles isn’t exactly sure where the pass rusher stands in terms of being ready for Week 1, via Zack Pearson of Bear Report.
“Ryan Poles says he’s not sure if Austin Booker will be ready for Week 1. Says they are taking it week by week,” Pearson wrote.
The Bears still have nearly two weeks before their opener against the Carolina Panthers. There is time for Booker to get back on the field. But if the pass rusher isn’t able to get ample practice time in, his Week 1 status will be murky even if he plays.
Chicago Bears relying on Austin Booker pass rush boost
Booker broke onto the scene in 2025, putting up 35 tackles, 12 quarterback hits and 4.5 sacks over his 10 games; including nine starts. The pass rusher ranked second on the team in quarterback hits and third in sacks. It’s easy to see why the Bears have high expectations for the fifth-rounder.
However, those nine starts in 2025 were his first at the NFL level. He is entering 2026 with only 27 games of experience. It’s clear the Bears have fait in Booker’s development. But the expectations on his shoulder will now be lofty.
When it comes to Chicago’s pass rush, Montez Sweat is the clear leader. But the Bears have been tirelessly searching for his running mate. In 2026, Dayo Odeyingbo and Booker will carry the heaviest weight in handling that role.
Of course, Booker needs to be on the gridiron to make a true impact. As it stands, Poles isn’t sure if he will be in Week 1.
The post Chicago Bears’ Ryan Poles casts doubt over Austin Booker’s Week 1 status appeared first on ChiCitySports.
