After a solid but unspectacular rookie campaign, Rome Odunze is earning serious praise from the top of the building.
After a solid but unspectacular rookie campaign, wide receiver Rome Odunze is earning serious praise from the top of the building. Selected by the Chicago Bears with the ninth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Odunze has quickly become a focal point of the team’s offense. His performance on the field, combined with his work ethic and leadership qualities, has garnered attention from coaches, teammates, and front-office executives alike.
Odunze’s transition from college to the NFL was met with high expectations. At the University of Washington, he had an impressive career, setting school records and earning All-American honors. In his final college season, he recorded 92 receptions for 1,640 yards and 13 touchdowns, leading all FBS receivers and setting a Washington record for receiving yards in a season. (Reuters, chicagobears.com)
Upon joining the Bears, Odunze faced the challenge of adapting to the professional level. However, his ability to learn quickly and his dedication to improving were evident from the start. Head coach Matt Eberflus noted Odunze’s impressive grasp of the playbook and his maturity in understanding how he learns best. Eberflus remarked, “He’s a wonderful teammate and he’s going to be exciting to watch.” (chicagobears.com)
In his inaugural NFL season, Odunze showcased his potential. He appeared in all 18 games, recording 54 receptions for 734 yards and three touchdowns. While these numbers may not have been groundbreaking, they were a solid foundation for a rookie in a new system. Notably, Odunze became the first Bears pass-catcher to record multiple 100-yard receiving games as a rookie since Willie Gault in 1983. (SI, chicagobears.com)
Despite the team’s overall struggles, Odunze’s individual performances stood out. He demonstrated the ability to make contested catches and contribute significantly in critical moments. His chemistry with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams was evident, with the two developing a strong rapport as the season progressed. (chicagobears.com)
Odunze’s impact extended beyond his on-field statistics. Coaches and teammates have consistently praised his work ethic, leadership, and professionalism. Offensive coordinator Shane Waldron highlighted Odunze’s versatility and his ability to understand multiple receiver positions within the offense. Waldron stated, “He’s able to pick up an offense right away — really understand all three of the receiver spots right away.” (chicagobears.com)
Veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen also commended Odunze’s readiness and understanding of his responsibilities. Allen remarked, “Rome looks great. He’s a guy who stepped in.” (chicagobears.com)
As the Bears look to the future, Odunze is poised to play a pivotal role in the team’s offensive development. With a full offseason to continue building chemistry with Caleb Williams and further immerse himself in the playbook, expectations are high for his sophomore season. The Bears’ front office recognizes Odunze’s potential and is committed to providing him with the resources and support needed to succeed.
Odunze’s rookie season may not have been spectacular, it laid a solid foundation for what promises to be a successful career in Chicago. His combination of talent, work ethic, and leadership qualities make him a player to watch in the coming seasons. With continued development and support, Rome Odunze has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Bears’ offense for years to come.
