Bears’ Top-Graded Matchups to Watch in Week 6

When Atlanta lost both of its EDGE rushers before the season, concerns quickly emerged about the team’s pass rush. However, Thomas has answered the call in a big way. Through the first six weeks, he has recorded 22 pressures, three sacks, seven run stuffs and a forced fumble, according to PFF tracking.

Wright struggled in Week 5, allowing six of his 10 pressures on the season. However, he has performed exceptionally well overall and had established himself as a potential Protector of the Year candidate before that difficult outing. He will need to bounce back against Thomas, who has emerged as a key contributor to Atlanta’s pass rush.

Austin Booker (79.6) vs. Jawaan Taylor (64.1)

This is another matchup between an EDGE rusher and an offensive tackle. Atlanta acquired Taylor during the offseason, and after a rough start to the season, he has begun to settle into his role with the Falcons. Through the first six weeks, Taylor has allowed just four pressures across 142 pass-blocking snaps, with half of those pressures coming in Week 1.

Booker has made the most of his 110 pass-rush snaps this season. With Chicago down an EDGE rusher, he will shoulder a larger responsibility for the Bears on Sunday. According to PFF tracking, Booker has recorded nine pressures and four sacks this season. He has also contributed 10 run stuffs and forced two fumbles.

If Booker can capitalize on Taylor’s early-season struggles and generate consistent pressure, he could make life difficult for Atlanta’s offense.

Sydney Brown (74.3) vs. Luther Burden III (70.6)

Brown is projected to start at cornerback in Week 6 after multiple injuries hit Atlanta’s secondary. He offers versatility, having played both safety positions and slot cornerback. His recent performance in coverage has been particularly impressive, as he earned a 91.3 coverage grade in Week 6, ranking among the NFL’s best for the week.

Although Brown has been a reliable option in the slot, matching up against Burden presents a significant challenge. The Bears rookie has continued to develop into a dangerous slot receiver and is gaining momentum as the season progresses. Of his 266 receiving yards, 111 have come after the catch.

Burden’s ability to create yards after the catch could make this a difficult assignment for Brown. If the Bears can get the ball into Burden’s hands in space, he has the potential to turn short completions into significant gains.