Austin Booker tasked with leading Bears defense against Falcons on Sunday
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 17, 2026, 6:31 PM
Last updated Oct 17, 2026
The Chicago Bears face a critical matchup against the Atlanta Falcons on October 18. With Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo sidelined, Austin Booker is expected to spearhead the pass rush. He leads the team with four sacks this season and must pressure Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. The Bears also contend with issues in the secondary, where Jaylon Johnson is struggling, allowing a 118.6 passer rating. The need for strong performances is heightened as they aim to avoid a damaging losing streak.
- •Austin Booker leads the Bears with four sacks through five games.
- •Jaylon Johnson faces pressure to improve his coverage against Drake London.
- •The Bears are without key defenders Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo.
- •Garrett Bradbury's performance against Gervon Dexter is crucial for the offensive line.
- •A defeat against Atlanta could jeopardize the Bears' season trajectory.
- 6:31 PMYahoo Sports — Austin Booker Must Dominate To Save Bears Defense
"Without Montez Sweat, Austin Booker must carry the Bears' pass rush against the Falcons on Sunday to avoid a season-defining losing streak.
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