Former Kansas Star Already a Draft-Day Steal After Incredible Preseason

Former Kansas Jayhawks standout Austin Booker wrapped up a phenomenal preseason for the Chicago Bears on Thursday night, helping Chicago defeat the Kansas City Chiefs 34-21 in the final tune-up game.

Originally drafted in the fifth round despite speculation he could be a third-rounder, Booker has immediately made the Bears look like geniuses. He should be a major factor in Chicago's defensive line rotation, already proving to be a draft-day steal without playing in a regular season game yet.

Considering the high expectations surrounding the organization now, Booker's quick development even has some in the media believing he should start Week 1.

Former Jayhawks Star Austin Booker Dominates for Bears in Preseason

While he only played one season as a Jayhawk, Booker made the most of it after transferring from Minnesota. He had 56 tackles (12 for loss), 37 total pressures, eight sacks, two forced fumbles, and a deflected pass while establishing himself as one of the best defensive linemen in the Big 12.

The Bears utilized a series of midseason trades to become an excellent defense over the second half of the season. Picks like Booker should keep Chicago's unit afloat, especially now that the organization views itself as a contender.

His explosive first step, long arms and adept technique made Booker an easy pick in the middle rounds. He's a player NFL teams will regret passing on and perhaps should've even been a second-round selection.

One organization's trash is another's treasure. Booker certainly looks like a true diamond in the rough. After turning into a star for Kansas, he's picked up right where he left off with the Bears.

He never had any business falling to pick No. 144, and he's determined to make sure the rest of the NFL knows it.

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