2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Tyler Booker

Strengths

• Prototypical build for an old-school power guard at a hulking 6'5" and 325 lbs.
• Anaconda, vice-grip hands. There is no escaping once he has you in his grasp.
• He understands how to strike his opponents with independent hands. 
• A brick wall in pass protection against the bull rush.
• He has a flexible lower half to unlock his hips and anchor.
• Erases defenders from gaps. Excels in duo and down blocks. Also a strong pinner in pin pull schemes.
• He plays with a contagious energy that sets the tone. He is always looking to outplay his opponents and consistently plays through the whistle.
• Quick to pass off stunts and engage blitzers. 

Weaknesses

• Only an average athlete for NFL Standards.
• He seems slow as a puller, taking too long to get ahead of the play.
• Limited foot speed in pass protection.
• Sometimes, he can be too aggressive, sacrificing good positioning because he is focused on burying the man in front of him.

Final Thoughts and Bears Fit For Tyler Booker

Tyler Booker is a cliche throwback-ass kicking guard. He plays just like he looks: big and fierce. He performs best in a phone booth, excelling in both the running and passing game. 

Booker may not be the most nimble mover in pass protection, but he excels at establishing contact with his strikes. When he gets his hands inside, he effectively drops anchor and finishes the rep. This occurs frequently. His technique follows a rinse, lather, and repeat pattern. 

That strength also translates to the run game. Booker's ability to forklift defensive tackles off the line of scrimmage is awe-inspiring. He fits perfectly in a gap power scheme where he can create movement in tight spaces.

The more he is asked to work in space, the worse the results seem. While Booker made a concerted effort to slim down, losing 22 lbs from 2023 to 2024, he still looked pretty slow when moving into space.

Wide zone and perimeter-pulling plays are not his strength. His best work comes from blocking in "at you" runs rather than lateral runs. Booker also tends to be a bit overly zealous as a run blocker. While everyone appreciates a good pancake block, it shouldn't come at the cost of falling off blocks. He must improve his ability to pick his spots in the NFL.

Beyond his prowess on the field, Booker has been recognized as one of Alabama's top leaders since he arrived in Tuscaloosa. "He might be one of the best leaders I have ever been around," said Alabama Head Coach Kalen Deboer about Booker.  

Given that the Bears need to strengthen their interior offensive line and bring in more leaders for their locker room, Booker is extremely appealing. However, they will likely need to draft him at number 10 if they want him. I would be comfortable doing that, but some might think it's a bit rich for a guard, especially in a class with many strong guard options on day two. An ideal scenario would be to grab him in a trade down. 

Pro Comp: Tyler Smith