Report: Chicago Bears’ Austin Booker makes practice return amid groin injury

The Chicago Bears have been without pass rusher Austin Booker since mid August due to a groin injury. But as Week 1 looms closer, the pass rusher has finally made his return to practice.

Booker was in pads on Thursday, participating in at least individual drills, via Devan Kaney of FOX Chicago. The franchise is sure to further update his status once practice is over.

Austin Booker in pads and participating in drills today @fox32sports pic.twitter.com/8HOdFtGimD

— Devan Kaney (@Devan_Kaney) September 3, 2026

Having Booker back in pads is a great sign. At the very least, he is healthy enough to compete in football activities. The next step now is getting him involved in team drills. If Booker proves he can handle the blows and is ready to make an impact, it becomes more likely he is ready for Week 1. But the Bears at taking it one step at a time at this phase.

Chicago Bears trust Austin Booker when healthy 

The Bears entered their offseason with pass rusher being a clear need. And yet, they didn’t add any significant additions to the unit. That decision came in part due to the presence of Booker, who Chicago is expecting to take another step forward in 2026.

During the 2025 campaign, Booker put up 12 quarterback hits, 4.5 sacks and three passes defended over his 10 games. He ranked second on the team in quarterback hits and third in sacks. It’s not hard to see why the Bears are optimistic. However, Booker’s year was limited due to an early injury. While he returned to practice, the injury bug has bitten again. The Bears need to ensure Booker can handle a full 17-game season.

But the ball is now on the pass rusher’s side of the court. Chicago has given him every opportunity to succeed. Now back at practice, Booker will look to ramp up for Week 1 and get a jumpstart on proving himself during the 2026 season.

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