Kansas EDGE Austin Booker is among the most ascending pass rushers in the 2024 NFL Draft. Booker made the wise decision to make an early jump to the next level after an 8.0 sack season at Kansas in 2023. He's impressed NFL teams throughout this process with his football IQ and athleticism.
Booker recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network about transferring from Minnesota to Kansas, his breakout season, pass rush arsenal, which teams have shown interest in his services, and more.
JM: Now that you've had time to reflect, how do you look back on the decision to transfer from Minnesota to Kansas?
Austin Booker: I think it was a great opportunity for me to get an early start on my pro career. I learned a lot from a new coaching staff at Kansas. I felt better prepared for the next level. I'm excited for the opportunities ahead.
JM: It obviously worked out for you. You recorded 8.0 sacks at Kansas in 2023 after playing sporadically at Minnesota in 2022. Besides more playing time, what led to the uptick in production?
Austin Booker: I was able to take a more holistic view and approach. The culture is outstanding at Kansas. We put in a lot of work during the offseason.
I changed up my diet. I had more resources to invest back in myself as a result of the NIL deal at Kansas. Everything came together for me. It was a full-circle moment. I put it all together on the field.
JM: You really did. Speaking of putting it together, how would you describe your pass-rush arsenal? What are your go-to moves and counters?
Austin Booker: My go-to move is definitely the long arm. Whether that's a long arm to a throw-by, or long arm to a pull-through, long arm to push the linemen into the quarterback's lap, everything I do is based around the long arm.
Different variations of a long arm is my go-to move. I also love using speed and the ghost move. I can sell speed and spin-off of it. I have a lot of variety in my arsenal. I know how to switch it up.
JM: We've seen it on tape. Have you met with any teams throughout this process, whether in person or virtually?
Austin Booker: I've had like more than 15 Zoom calls. I had seven pre-draft 30 visits and two local days. I've been everywhere.
I started in Green Bay. Then I went to Baltimore and New England. From there, I did the Colts’ and Chiefs’ local day. I wrapped up with visits to Carolina, Miami, Washington, and Chicago.
JM: Wow. There's been a ton of interest in you and it's easy to see why. From the Senior Bowl to the NFL Combine to all of those meetings and visits, what do you think you've proven to NFL teams throughout this process?
Austin Booker: I think I've proven that I belong at this level. We talked about my start at Minnesota and getting an early jump on my pro career after a good season at Kansas.
I've shown NFL evaluators that I can hang. I've showcased my football IQ throughout this process. I love this game. It's going to come together very well for me at the next level.
JM: We've appreciated your time today. What kind of impact is Austin Booker going to make at the next level?
Austin Booker: I want to be a first-year starter. That's the goal. I'm going to bring a bunch of energy and hard work to the table. I love chasing after the ball. I'm going to keep playing with terrific effort at the next level.
