Top 26 Players of 2026: Austin Booker Will Play Key Role in Bears' Pass-Rush Success

The Chicago Bears’ ranking of the “Top 26 Players of 2026” places Austin Booker as a key factor for the team’s pass-rush success, specifically in the edge rotation opposite Montez Sweat. The article argues Chicago chose not to make a major free-agent splash at edge this offseason, pointing to Dayo Odeyingbo’s health and investment as a reason. It credits Booker’s development, noting he returned from IR and, despite not resolving all issues, improved efficiency late in the season. Over the final 10 games, Booker totaled 4.5 sacks and provided a steady presence across from Sweat. The piece projects a step forward in his third season, while referencing a standout play from his 2025 debut involving a strip sack after “forklifting” tackle Orlando Brown Jr. The competitive context is framed by what sack production—such as six or seven total—might mean for his impact ranking.