Chiefs 7-Round NFL Mock Draft 3.0: Fixing the Wide Receiver Problem
By Joe Summers
3. Austin Booker - DE, Kansas (Pick 95)
Brett Veach typically takes at least one pass rusher to keep the cupboard full, and the 6'4", 240 LB Austin Booker would be a fantastic fit as a productive player with local ties, having spent the last year in Lawrence as a Kansas Jayhawk.
Booker compiled 56 tackles, eight sacks and two forced fumbles this year, generating 37 total pressures on 482 snaps. He's quick to diagnose offensive plays and performs well as a run stopper, though his best traits come as a pass rusher.
His high motor and intense playing style would boost the Chiefs' defensive line, and Booker could learn behind some of the best pass rushers in the NFL as he develops a more complete skillset.
Austin Booker is an explosive and fluid pass rusher who wins in several ways. In this video alone, he shows off double swipes, stabs, bull rushes, + swim, ghost, stab, and rip moves
— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) April 4, 2024
Needs to add size, but flashed run-stopping ability when he quickly beat blockers' hands or got… https://t.co/cLFyEsiMzm pic.twitter.com/5eWdOaoxh7
Booker is a mature player with a variety of pass-rushing moves he uses to keep offensive linemen off balance. He's a raw prospect, with just one year as a starter in college, but his physical traits and impressive production make him a possible pick in the top 100.
After loading up at wide receiver in the first two rounds, I'm happy with shifting gears to keep the defense stout for years to come in the third.