Bears Place Rusher on Injured Reserve Ahead of Season Opener

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Chicago Bears have suffered a significant setback just days before their 2025 season opener, placing second-year defensive end Austin Booker on injured reserve with a knee injury. The decision means Booker will miss at least the first four games of the season.

Initially seen as a potential key contributor, Booker had emerged as the Bears’ top rotational edge rusher following a standout preseason, where he recorded four sacks. However, his injury occurred during an exhibition game against the Buffalo Bills on August 17, sidelining him for the remainder of the preseason.

With Booker out, the Bears will look to their former fifth-round pick, Dominique Robinson, and newcomer Trevis Gipson to fill the gap. Both are expected to provide backup support for starters Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo, who will remain busy in the starting lineup.

Robinson, despite showing promise during off-season practices, has yet to produce significant results in games, accumulating just two sacks over three seasons in 867 defensive snaps. Gipson’s role is primarily on special teams, with limited opportunities as a defensive player, making the depth at edge rusher a concern for the Bears.

As the Bears consider their options, veteran free agents could become a viable solution to strengthen their pass-rushing group. Names like Za'Darius Smith and Preston Smith have been mentioned as potential additions to bolster the roster.

General manager Ryan Poles has also hinted at exploring younger options as the team seeks to increase their edge-rushing depth if current players fall short.

Beyond the edge rusher position, the Bears face additional injury concerns, particularly in their secondary. Pro Bowl cornerback Jaylen Johnson is still recovering from an injury and has yet to return to practice, raising questions about his availability for the season opener. The team is also managing the return of another cornerback, who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury.

On the offensive side, running back Khalil Herbert has been placed on short-term injured reserve, leaving the team with just three available backs, which heightens concerns as the season kicks off.

The Bears’ regular season begins against the Minnesota Vikings at home on September 8, in the first Monday Night Football game of the 2025 NFL season.