Bears Shock Fans by Retaining Austin Booker on Injured Reserve Before Game

Fans of the Chicago Bears were surprised as the team decided to retain Austin Booker on injured reserve. Booker, a promising edge rusher, is still recovering from a knee injury sustained during a preseason game. Initially expected to return, he had participated in full practices leading up to this week.

Austin Booker’s Injury Status

Booker was injured during the second preseason game while playing on special teams. His performance earlier in the preseason was strong, with four sacks, marking him as a potential game-changer for the Bears’ pass rush.

Recent Decisions by the Bears

• Austin Booker remains on injured reserve.
• Travis Homer, the backup running back, is also retained on IR due to a calf injury.
• Jake Moody, a kicker, and Jonathan Ford, a defensive tackle, were elevated from the practice squad.

Coach Ben Johnson commented on the roster changes during a recent press conference, emphasizing the necessity of these moves. While there’s speculation about the health of kicker Cairo Santos, having Moody active could provide additional options for kickoffs or as precautionary support.

Given that the Bears are facing a team with a strong running game, Ford’s elevation is particularly strategic. His size and defensive capabilities as a 345-pound tackle could offer more assistance than another edge rusher against a run-heavy offense.

Concerns About the Pass Rush

The decision to keep Booker inactive raises eyebrows, especially as the Bears’ pass rush has been notably weak this season. With only five sacks recorded, the need for a skilled edge rusher like Booker is critical. Although it was anticipated that he would help bolster their defenses, his ongoing recovery has left fans questioning the team’s strategy.

As the Bears prepare for their upcoming game, the effectiveness of their pass rush remains a significant concern. The absence of Booker, who was poised to be one of the top performers in the preseason, might further exacerbate these issues.

Fans anxiously wait for updates on Booker’s recovery and hope for a swift return to bolster an underperforming defensive line.