- Rome Odunze
- #15
- Team CHI
- Pos WR
- Status IAInactive
-
Not playing Saturday
Odunze (foot) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Packers.
Analysis: Both Odunze and fellow WR Luther Burden (ankle) won't be available for Week 16 action after not practicing in any capacity this week. Odunze himself had been playing through a stress fracture in his foot for a good portion of the season before logging what now will be a third straight absence. His next chance to suit up is Sunday, Dec. 28 at San Francisco. His absence versus Green Bay, along with that of Burden, should lead to Olamide Zaccheaus and Devin Duvernay seeing added WR snaps…read more
Published: Thu, Dec 18 at 11:35am by Rotowire.com
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Not expected to play Saturday
Odunze (foot) is not expected to suit up for Saturday's game against the Packers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Odunze was initially listed as active for Chicago's win over the Browns, but he aggravated the stress fracture in his foot during pregame warmups and was made a late scratch. The 2024 first-round pick has not practiced since, and head coach Ben Johnson said Monday that "all options are on the table" for Odunze's recovery, including resting him ahead of the playoffs. With Luther Burden (ankle) also looking uncertain for Saturday's divisional matchup, Olamide Zaccheaus and Devin Duvernay could be…read more
Published: Thu, Dec 18 at 7:17am by Rotowire.com
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Still not practicing
Odunze (foot) didn't participate in Wednesday's practice.
Analysis: Odunze sat out a Week 14 loss at Green Bay due to a stress fracture in his foot, and while he was listed as active this past Sunday against the Browns, he was a late scratch due to a setback suffered during pregame warmups. On Monday, coach Ben Johnson told Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com that "all options are on the table" for Odunze's recovery, but the second-year pro now has missed both Week 16 sessions, putting his availability in question ahead of Saturday's game versus the Packers.
Published: Wed, Dec 17 at 12:28pm by Rotowire.com
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Sits out first Week 16 practice
The Bears listed Odunze (foot) as a non-participant in Tuesday's walk-through practice.
Analysis: Despite being active for Sunday's 31-3 win over the Browns, Odunze ended up missing his second consecutive contest after he aggravated the stress fracture in his foot while warming up prior to the opening kickoff. Head coach Ben Johnson suggested Monday that the Bears could look to shut down Odunze for a period of time to give him the opportunity to fully move past the foot issue, but the wideout hasn't officially been ruled out from playing in this Saturday's key NFC North matchup with the…read more
Published: Tue, Dec 16 at 3:21pm by Rotowire.com
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All options on table
Bears head coach Ben Johnson said Monday that "all options are on the table" regarding the recovery of Odunze (foot), Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Johnson indicated that Chicago could consider shutting Odunze down for the time being in order for him to rest up in time for the playoffs, saying it may be necessary "to protect him from himself a little bit so he can help us down the road." Odunze had appeared primed to retake the field Week 15 against Cleveland, but he was made a late scratch after aggravating the stress fracture in his foot during pregame warmups. With Luther Burden (ankle) now considered day-to-day ahead of Saturday's…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 15 at 1:28pm by Rotowire.com
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Out Sunday after late setback
Odunze aggravated the stress fracture in his foot during pregame warmups and has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Browns, Chris Emma of 670TheScore.com reports.
Analysis: After sitting out the Bears' Week 14 loss to the Packers, Odunze had been listed as questionable heading into Sunday following a trio of limited practices. The Bears felt comfortable making Odunze active for the contest, but they'll ultimately have to play a man down as a result of his late setback. With Odunze unavailable, Chicago will be left with receivers DJ Moore, Luther Burden and Olamide Zaccheaus and tight ends Colston Loveland and Cole Kmet as its main pass-catching options.
Published: Sun, Dec 14 at 9:58am by Rotowire.com
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Back in action Sunday
Odunze (foot) is listed as active Sunday against the Browns.
Analysis: Odunze didn't practice at all during Week 14 prep and was ruled out ahead of last Sunday's loss at Green Bay. Not long after that, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported that Odunze had been playing through a stress fracture in his foot and was considered week-to-week. After being listed as limited Wednesday through Friday and entering the weekend as questionable, Odunze's outlook brightened Saturday when a report from Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com relayed that the Bears were optimistic of the…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 14 at 8:33am by Rotowire.com
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Optimism for Week 15
There is optimism in the Bears organization that Odunze (foot) will be available to play against the Browns on Sunday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Odunze did not play against the Packers in Week 14 due to a foot injury. He earned the questionable tag for Sunday's game after failing to log a full practice during Week 15 prep, but it appears the second-year wideout is on track to return against Cleveland. Odunze's official status may not be known until the Bears announce their list approximately 90 minutes before the 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff, which would give fantasy managers time to explore their options in case the 2024 first-rounder is not…read more
Published: Sat, Dec 13 at 7:30am by Rotowire.com
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Questionable after limited practice
Odunze (foot) remained limited at practice Friday and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Cleveland.
Analysis: Odunze was a limited participant Wednesday through Friday after missing last week's loss to the Packers. His failure to progress to full participation could set up a game-time decision ahead of the 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff Sunday, with Olamide Zaccheaus (hamstring) set for a big boost in playing time if Odunze is inactive.
Published: Fri, Dec 12 at 11:16am by Rotowire.com
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Puts in limited practice
Odunze (foot) was a limited practice participant Thursday.
Analysis: Chicago had estimated Odunze as a limited participant for Wednesday's walk-through session, but Thursday marked the first time the second-year wideout had actually taken the field for a practice in more than two weeks. Odunze, who is working his way back from a stress fracture in his foot, is a candidate to play Sunday versus the Browns, but he may have to upgrade to full participation in Friday's practice to avoid taking a designation into the weekend. The potential return of Odunze this…read more
Published: Thu, Dec 11 at 12:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as limited Wednesday
Odunze (foot) was listed as limited on Wednesday's estimated injury report, Sean Hammond of the Chicago Tribune reports.
Analysis: After missing all three Week 14 practices and being ruled out for this past Sunday's game at Green Bay, Odunze was revealed to be dealing with a stress fracture in his foot that left him week-to-week, per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. Such a prognosis, even from an NFL insider, typically results in a multi-game absence, but Odunze's listing to start Week 15 prep indicates he has a chance to return Sunday against the Browns. How he fares in practice Thursday and Friday likely will be key in that…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 10 at 2:40pm by Rotowire.com
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Considered week-to-week
Odunze, who was ruled out for Sunday's game against Green Bay, has been playing with a stress fracture in his foot and is considered week-to-week, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
Analysis: The report suggests Odunze should return at some point in December, with the expectation being that rest will help (he didn't practice at all this week) .The stress fracture helps explain his drastic downturn in production after a fast start to the season, though other factors contributed there as well. In Odunze's absence, the Bears figure to deploy DJ Moore, Luther Burden and Olamide Zaccheaus as their top three WRs against the Packers.
Published: Fri, Dec 5 at 2:10pm by Rotowire.com
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Ruled out for Sunday
Odunze (foot) has been ruled out for Sunday's game at Green Bay.
Analysis: There was no clear sign of trouble during last week's 24-15 win over the Eagles, in which Odunze handled an 80 percent snap share and 87 percent route share but finished with just two catches for eight yards on six targets. He likely was injured at some point during that game, as he hasn't practiced since and will now miss a contest for the first time in his NFL career. Luther Burden and Olamide Zaccheaus figure to get more playing time in Odunze's absence, with DJ Moore, Colston Loveland and…read more
Published: Fri, Dec 5 at 11:21am by Rotowire.com
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Looking shaky for Sunday
Bears head coach Ben Johnson didn't sound confident about Odunze (foot) playing in Sunday's game at Green Bay, according to Chris Emma of 670TheScore.com.
Analysis: Emma reports that Johnson was more optimistic about LB T.J. Edwards (hand/hamstring) than Odunze, who missed practice Wednesday and Thursday. Odunze was listed with heel and ankle injuries earlier this season, but he hasn't missed a game in his young NFL career.
Published: Fri, Dec 5 at 9:43am by Rotowire.com
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Another DNP on Thursday
Odunze (foot) didn't take part in Thursday's practice.
Analysis: Odunze now hasn't managed any on-field work at the midpoint of Week 14 prep, allowing him only one more opportunity to mix into drills before the Bears potentially make a ruling on his status for Sunday's game at Green Bay. If Odunze is inhibited or sidelined this weekend, DJ Moore, Luther Burden and Olamide Zaccheaus would be the main options to see work in three-wide formations.
Published: Thu, Dec 4 at 12:10pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as DNP due to foot injury
Odunze was listed as a non-participant on Wednesday's estimated practice report due to a foot injury.
Analysis: Odunze has operated with practice restrictions or sat out drills entirely this season due to ankle and heel injuries, so this appears to be a new health concern for the second-year wide receiver. His status will be watched as the week goes on to get a sense of his availability, or lack thereof, as the Bears prepare for Sunday's visit to Green Bay. DJ Moore, Luther Burden, Olamide Zaccheaus, Devin Duvernay and Jahdae Walker are the healthy options at the position on the active roster.
Published: Wed, Dec 3 at 1:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Does little with six targets
Odunze brought in two of six targets for eight yards during the Bears' 24-15 win over the Eagles on Friday.
Analysis: Odunze tied Luther Burden and Colston Loveland for the most targets on the Bears on Friday, but Odunze was unable to do much with his limited touches on a day in which Caleb Williams completed just 17 of 36 passes (47.2 percent). Odunze has cooled off from his hot start to the regular season, when he logged a 20-296-5 line on 35 targets through the first four games. In the eight games since Chicago's Week 5 bye, the second-year wideout has caught just 24 passes (on 55 targets) for 365 yards and…read more
Published: Fri, Nov 28 at 4:23pm by Rotowire.com
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Inefficient with nine targets
Odunze brought in three of nine targets for 53 yards in the Bears' 31-28 win over the Steelers on Sunday.
Analysis: Odunze was second in receiving yards for the Bears on the afternoon, but his day could have been appreciably bigger with an uptick in efficiency. Nevertheless, the second-year wideout eclipsed 50 receiving yards for the third time in five games, all contests in which he's drawn at least nine targets. Odunze should be busy again in a Week 13 road matchup against the Eagles on Black Friday.
Published: Sun, Nov 23 at 2:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Two catches in defense-first win
Odunze caught two of six targets for 41 yards in Sunday's 19-17 win over the Vikings.
Analysis: Odunze caught only one of five first-half targets but still led the Bears with 24 first-half receiving yards, accounting for a third of Caleb Williams' 72 passing yards before halftime. Williams was marginally more productive in the second half but directed only one pass at Odunze. Despite the modest volume, Odunze finished four receiving yards shy of Cole Kmet's team lead Sunday. Heading into a Week 12 home game against the Steelers, Odunze leads the Bears across the board with 39 catches for…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 16 at 2:28pm by Rotowire.com
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Good to go
Odunze (ankle) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Vikings.
Analysis: Odunze and DJ Moore (shoulder) both have been cleared to play after logging full practices Friday. They should fill their usual roles, with Olamide Zacheeaus working as the No. 3 receiver while Luther Burden subs in for Odunze/Moore at times.
Published: Fri, Nov 14 at 11:41am by Rotowire.com
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Limited Thursday
Odunze (ankle) was limited in practice Thursday.
Analysis: Odunze appears to be following a similar practice pattern to the one he's acted out since late October, which would have him participate in full Friday and ultimately avoid an injury designation for Sunday's road matchup against the Vikings. Even if Odunze is limited again Friday, he appears to have a solid shot at being available Week 11. Fellow starting wideout DJ Moore (shoulder) also upgraded to a limited practice Thursday after having been a non-participant Wednesday.
Published: Thu, Nov 13 at 12:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Misses practice Wednesday
Odunze (ankle) did not practice Wednesday.
Analysis: Odunze has regularly had his reps managed by Chicago to begin practice weeks, so as long as he's able to resume handling at least limited activity during Thursday's session, it will bode well for his odds of gaining clearance for Sunday's road matchup against the Vikings. The second-year pro bounced back with six grabs for 86 yards and a touchdown (on 10 targets) during the Bears' win over the Giants in Week 10, proving that he retains a valuable fantasy ceiling despite the unpredictable nature…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 12 at 12:56pm by Rotowire.com
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Rebounds in Week 10 win
Odunze caught six of 10 targets for 86 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-20 win over the Giants.
Analysis: Odunze bounced back from a Week 9 goose egg against the Bengals, leading the Bears in targets, catches and receiving yards Sunday. He accounted for Chicago's lone aerial score with a two-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter. Odunze could stand to improve his game-to-game consistency, but the 2024 first-round pick leads the Bears across the board with 37 catches, 559 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns on 69 targets heading into a Week 11 road game against the Vikings.
Published: Sun, Nov 9 at 2:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Cleared to play
Odunze (ankle/heel) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Giants.
Analysis: Odunze played through the same heel injury last week and somehow finished without a catch in a 47-42 victory over the Bengals. He's also listed with an ankle injury this week, but he was a full practice participant Friday and thus figures to handle his usual workload in terms of snaps/routes.
Published: Fri, Nov 7 at 11:55am by Rotowire.com
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Advances to limited practice
Odunze (ankle/heel) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.
Analysis: One of three Bears receivers on the Week 10 injury report, Odunze joined DJ Moore (hip/groin) in advancing from no activity Wednesday to limited participation Thursday, while Luther Burden (concussion) was a full participant on both days. Assuming Odunze is able to log another limited practice Friday or advance to full activity, he should be in good shape to play this Sunday against the Giants.
Published: Thu, Nov 6 at 1:11pm by Rotowire.com
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No practice Wednesday
Odunze (ankle/heel) did not practice Wednesday.
Analysis: Odunze logged a DNP/LP/FP practice slate prior to being cleared to suit up for Chicago's narrow win over the Bengals in Week 9, so as long as he's able to put forth similar activity ahead of Sunday's game against the Giants he should be able to take the field. Versus Cincinnati, Odunze failed to haul in any of his three targets. DJ Moore (hip/groin) also missed practice Wednesday while Luther Burden (concussion) was a full participant.
Published: Wed, Nov 5 at 12:56pm by Rotowire.com
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Held without a catch
Odunze failed to secure any of his three targets in the Bears' 47-42 win over the Bengals on Sunday.
Analysis: Odunze had logged at least five targets in every prior game this season before being limited to three in Cincinnati. The receiver has 32 or fewer yards in three of the last four games. He remains a full-time starter with WR3 appeal, though this marked his first game without a reception in 2025.
Published: Sun, Nov 2 at 8:16pm by Rotowire.com
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No injury designation
Odunze (heel) was a full practice participant Friday and doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Bengals.
Analysis: The same goes for WR DJ Moore (hip/groin), WR Olamide Zaccheaus (knee) and TE Cole Kmet (back), while No. 4 receiver Luther Burden (concussion) and starting running back D'Andre Swift (groin) have been ruled out. Odunze doesn't really have room for growth in terms of snap/route shares, but he could be even more of a priority than usual in terms of targets/touches with Swift and Burden out of action.
Published: Fri, Oct 31 at 12:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Expects to play Sunday
Odunze (heel) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.
Analysis: A spectator for the Bears' first practice of the week Wednesday, Odunze's ability to increase his activity a day later is an encouraging sign as Sunday's game against the Bengals approaches. The Bears will wait until after Friday's practice before deciding whether Odunze carries a designation into the weekend, but the second-year receiver told Jason Lieser of the Chicago Sun-Times after Thursday's session that he expects to be good to go for Sunday's contest.
Published: Thu, Oct 30 at 12:30pm by Rotowire.com
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Misses practice Wednesday
Odunze (heel) did not practice Wednesday.
Analysis: Odunze and fellow top wideout DJ Moore (hip/groin) were both held out of practice Wednesday, as were rookie Luther Burden (concussion) and veteran slot option Olamide Zaccheaus (knee). Given the plethora of injuries facing Chicago's wide receiver corps, it's possible the team is simply taking a cautious approach to the beginning of Week 9 prep. Odunze will have two more chances to get back on the practice field before receiving a tentative game-day injury designation ahead of Sunday's road…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 29 at 12:50pm by Rotowire.com
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Tops century mark in loss
Odunze caught seven of 10 targets for 114 yards in Sunday's 30-16 loss to the Ravens.
Analysis: Olamide Zaccheaus tied him for the team lead in receptions, but otherwise Odunze was Caleb Williams' clear top downfield option again after a couple lackluster performances, as he topped 100 yards for the first time since Week 2. The second-year wideout sports a 31-473-5 line on 56 targets through seven games, and Odunze will take renewed momentum into a Week 9 clash with the Bengals.
Published: Sun, Oct 26 at 1:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Contained in Week 7 win
Odunze brought in two of six targets for 31 yards in the Bears' 26-14 win over the Saints on Sunday.
Analysis: Odunze's target tally led the Bears on the afternoon, and he also finished with the second-highest receiving yardage total on the team. The latter particularly speaks to what a quiet day it was for the passing attack overall, as Caleb Williams threw for only 172 yards. Odunze put together a productive three-game stretch between Weeks 2 and 4 where he posted 14 receptions for 259 yards and four touchdowns, but he's netted just a 4-63-0 line on 11 targets in the subsequent pair of contests.…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 19 at 3:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Cools off out of bye week
Odunze finished with two receptions (on five targets) for 32 yards in Monday's 25-24 win over the Commanders.
Analysis: Chicago's Week 5 bye didn't benefit Odunze, who saw the four-game scoring streak he started the season with end abruptly Monday. The 23-year-old finished fourth for the Bears in receiving as QB Caleb Williams spread the ball around evenly amongst his targets in the win. Odunze was providing WR1 production prior to Monday's dud, so managers should continue starting the wideout with confidence against the Saints on Sunday.
Published: Mon, Oct 13 at 9:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Scoring binge continues Sunday
Odunze had four receptions on eight targets for 69 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 25-24 win over the Raiders.
Analysis: Odunze's scoring onslaught continued when he gutted the Raiders' secondary for a 27-yard touchdown on Chicago's first possession of the second half. The breakout fantasy star has generated five touchdowns during his impressive four-game scoring streak to kick off the season. Odunze's eight targets Sunday were on par with his 8.8 average through four weeks, giving fantasy managers a reliable WR1 asset so far. The talented sophomore will attempt to extend his scoring streak when the Bears resume…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 28 at 5:51pm by Rotowire.com
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Breakout continues
Odunze recorded three receptions on seven targets for 62 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 31-14 win over Dallas.
Analysis: Odunze made an immediate impact, hauling in a 35-yard touchdown on Chicago's first offensive possession. He was relatively quiet thereafter, though he still managed a pair of additional receptions for 13 and 14 yards. Odunze has found the end zone in every game this season while surpassing 60 yards in each of his last two contests.
Published: Sun, Sep 21 at 10:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Two TDs in ugly loss
Odunze brought in seven of 11 targets for 128 yards and two touchdowns in the Bears' 52-21 loss to the Lions on Sunday.
Analysis: Odunze, in conjunction with Caleb Williams, single-handedly kept the Bears competitive in the first quarter, recording 28- and six-yard touchdown grabs in the first and second quarter, respectively. Odunze easily led the Bears in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the afternoon, and although his career-best day was sullied by the sizable loss, it was certainly encouraging to see the emphasis on getting the second-year wideout involved in Ben Johnson's offense. Odunze next takes aim at a…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 14 at 3:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Scores in Week 1 loss
Odunze caught six of nine targets for 37 yards and a touchdown in Monday's 27-24 loss to the Vikings.
Analysis: Odunze kept hope alive for the Bears with a one-yard touchdown catch just before the two-minute warning in the fourth quarter. His nine targets paced the team, though DJ Moore (68) and Olamide Zaccheaus (42) both had more receiving yards Monday. Odunze, a 2024 first-round pick, is set up for a more consistent role in his second NFL season after he had three-plus catches in only nine of 17 games as a rookie. Up next for the Bears is a Week 2 trip to Detroit.
Published: Mon, Sep 8 at 9:10pm by Rotowire.com
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Star on offense Friday
Odunze finished with three receptions on five targets for 45 yards and a touchdown in Friday's preseason win over Kansas City.
Analysis: Odunze showed marked improvement over his catchless outing last week with Friday's team-leading performance. The 2024 first-round pick caught QB Caleb Williams' only passing touchdown while also finishing with Chicago's longest reception (37 yards). Odunze will attempt to build off of a modest 54-734-3 receiving line as a rookie when the Bears kick off the regular season against the Vikings on Sept. 8.
Published: Fri, Aug 22 at 9:57pm by Rotowire.com
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Quiet in preseason debut
Odunze failed to catch his only target in Sunday's 38-0 preseason win over Buffalo.
Analysis: Chicago's offense looked sharp in its brief debut Sunday, but Odunze didn't contribute much offensively before giving way to the backups. The 2024 first-round selection has been earning rave reviews in camp, so don't let this bagel in an exhibition game sour his fantasy stock. Odunze will serve as the Bears' No. 2 wideout this upcoming season in what should be an improved offense under head coach Ben Johnson.
Published: Sun, Aug 17 at 9:01pm by Rotowire.com
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In line to play Sunday
Odunze is expected to play along with the rest of Chicago's starters during Sunday's preseason game against the Bills, Sean Hammond of the Chicago Tribune reports.
Analysis: The Bears did not play their first-team offense or defense during last Sunday's 24-24 tie versus Miami, so Odunze has yet to suit up this preseason. The second-year wideout collected 54 of 101 targets for 734 yards and three touchdowns over 17 regular-season games as a rookie, and he's stood out while catching passes from quarterback Caleb Williams during training camp practices. Odunze should be in line for a productive season as Chicago's No. 2 WR behind DJ Moore and ahead of second-round…read more
Published: Sun, Aug 17 at 3:30pm by Rotowire.com
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Impressive in team drills
Odunze made a strong impression Thursday, hauling in a 14-yard gain over the middle to start the end-of-half drill. He also adjusted to a pass behind him, ripping it away from a defender to move the chains, Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Odunze is trying to build on a 2024 rookie season where he posted 734 receiving yards, showing the contested-catch skills that helped him stand out at times last year. His growing chemistry with Caleb Williams suggests a path to steady production, particularly with his ability to win tough catches in traffic. That skill set makes him a viable mid-round fantasy target with upside if the Bears' passing game progresses.
Published: Fri, Aug 15 at 7:32am by Rotowire.com
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Anticipates Year 2 leap
Odunze said at the final day of mandatory minicamp Thursday that his goal for the 2025 regular season is to compile at least 1,000 receiving yards and double-digit touchdowns, Patrick Finley of the Chicago Sun Times reports.
Analysis: Odunze's expectations for 2025 would be an enormous step forward from the 54-734-3 receiving line he tallied on 101 targets across 17 regular-season appearances as a rookie, but enough went wrong for Chicago in 2024 that a true evaluation of last year's No. 9 overall pick is difficult to make. Unreliable pass protection, inconsistency from Caleb Williams and coaching so poor that the Bears deployed three different offensive coordinators all stood in the way of Odunze's production, but the team…read more
Published: Fri, Jun 6 at 2:13pm by Rotowire.com
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Quiet finish to first pro season
Odunze caught both his targets for 18 yards in the Bears' 24-22 win over the Packers on Sunday.
Analysis: Even though Chicago selected Odunze with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2024 draft, he was the clear third receiver for the team behind DJ Moore and Keenan Allen. Still, the rookie hauled in 54 of 101 targets for 734 yards and three touchdowns in 17 games. Allen is headed for free agency, so Odunze could move into a larger role in the offense in 2025. With better coaching to help Caleb Williams improve as well, Odunze is a strong candidate for a second-year breakout.
Published: Mon, Jan 6 at 7:15am by Rotowire.com
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Cleared for Week 18
Odunze (illness) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Packers.
Analysis: Odunze returned to full practice participation Friday after an illness kept him out the previous two days. He had one of his better games of the year the last time he faced Green Bay, catching six of 10 targets for 65 yards in a 20-19 loss in Week 11.
Published: Fri, Jan 3 at 11:47am by Rotowire.com
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Still not practicing
Odunze (illness) didn't practice Thursday.
Analysis: With no activity to speak of yet during Week 18 prep due to an illness, Odunze has only one more opportunity Friday to mix into drills before the Bears potentially tag him with a designation ahead of Sunday's contest at Green Bay. In his first matchup with the Packers back in Week 11, Odunze gathered in six of 10 targets for 65 yards, which is his fourth-highest yardage total of his rookie campaign.
Published: Thu, Jan 2 at 11:55am by Rotowire.com
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Comes down with illness
Odunze was held out of Wednesday's walk-through practice due to an illness.
Analysis: Fortunately for the rookie first-round pick, Odunze's status for Week 18 isn't in peril, as interim head coach Thomas Brown told Scott Bair of Marquee Sports Network. Odunze will have two more chances this week to get on the practice field before the Bears potentially give him a designation ahead of Sunday's game at Green Bay.
Published: Wed, Jan 1 at 10:37am by Rotowire.com
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One catch in Week 17 loss
Odunze brought in one of four targets for 15 yards in the Bears' 6-3 loss to the Seahawks on Thursday night.
Analysis: Odunze and Caleb Williams had trouble connecting for the most part, although the rookie receiver did have a 17-yard touchdown catch late in the second quarter nullified by an offensive holding penalty. Odunze's reception and yardage totals were his lowest since Week 4, but he'll have an opportunity to head into his first NFL offseason with some momentum when he faces the Packers secondary in a Week 18 road matchup.
Published: Thu, Dec 26 at 9:00pm by Rotowire.com
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Second in receiving yards Sunday
Odunze brought in four of seven targets for 77 yards in the Bears' 34-17 loss to the Lions on Sunday.
Analysis: Odunze was second in receiving yards on the afternoon for the Bears while checking in third in both receptions and targets. Caleb Williams threw for over 300 yards and completed a solid 65.0 percent of his throws, so it wasn't surprising to see Odunze put up a more efficient catch rate than usual as well. The rookie wideout's yardage total was his highest since Week 9, affording him some solid momentum heading into a Week 17 home matchup against the Seahawks on Thursday night.
Published: Sun, Dec 22 at 4:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Struggles in MNF loss
Odunze finished with two receptions (on seven targets) for 39 yards in Monday's 30-12 loss to the Vikings.
Analysis: Odunze was unable to replicate his two-score game from a week prior, instead providing fantasy managers with just two receptions in Monday's lopsided defeat. The Bears' first-round rookies struggled to get on the same page after Caleb Williams connected with Odunze on just 29 percent of his throws against Minnesota. Odunze has potential to go off on a given week, but his floor is too low to rely on against the Lions on Sunday for managers making critical lineup decisions in the fantasy playoffs.
Published: Mon, Dec 16 at 9:26pm by Rotowire.com
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First multi-score game of career
Odunze caught four of five targets for 42 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 38-13 loss to the 49ers.
Analysis: Odunze cashed in a pair of garbage-time touchdowns in Sunday's blowout loss for the first multi-score game of his young career. When the rookie scored during the contest shouldn't matter to fantasy managers, who had witnessed just one trip to the end zone over the wideout's previous 12 contests. Odunze's inconsistency in Chicago's flailing offense keeps him from relevance in shallower formats ahead of next Monday's tilt against Minnesota.
Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 5:52pm by Rotowire.com
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Disappointing Thanksgiving numbers
Odunze caught two passes for 25 yards on six targets in Thursday's 23-20 loss to the Lions.
Analysis: Odunze has mostly been promising during his rookie season, but this game was one of his most forgettable. It's possible that most of Odunze's struggles Thursday were outside his control -- DJ Moore (16 targets) and Keenan Allen (eight targets) seemed to be earlier than Odunze in most read progressions, and with the Detroit pass rush in play it would have been difficult for Caleb Williams to regularly get to his third read. Odunze remains capable but probably less than reliable as a fantasy…read more
Published: Thu, Nov 28 at 2:20pm by Rotowire.com
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Makes five catches Sunday
Odunze gathered in five of 10 targets for 39 yards and no touchdowns during Sunday's 30-27 loss to the Vikings.
Analysis: Odunze recorded double-digit targets for the second game in a row (and third time on the campaign), but he wasn't very efficient with his looks from QB Caleb Williams, unlike fellow WRs DJ Moore (7-106-1 on seven targets) and Keenan Allen (9-86-1 on 15 targets) and TE Cole Kmet (7-64-0 on 10 targets). Lacking efficiency has been a season-long trend for the rookie, as Odunze's catch rate (55.7 percent) and YPT (7.4) indicate. His next chance to produce arrives Thursday at Detroit.
Published: Sun, Nov 24 at 5:17pm by Rotowire.com
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Team-high receiving yardage in loss
Odunze brought in six of 10 targets for 65 yards in the Bears' 20-19 loss to the Packers on Sunday.
Analysis: Odunze led the Bears in receiving yards and targets while checking in second in receptions. The rookie's usage in the Bears' first game under interim offensive coordinator Thomas Brown was highly encouraging considering Odunze hadn't exceeded seven targets in eight of his first nine NFL contests. The 2024 first-round pick tabulated the final 37 receiving yards of his day on Chicago's final drive of the game, and he'll head into what could be a Week 12 home matchup against the Vikings with…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 17 at 5:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Six targets in defeat
Odunze caught three passes for 23 yards in the Bears' 19-3 loss to the Patriots on Sunday.
Analysis: Odunze was showing signs of life after posting the second 100-yard game of his career last week. However, with Caleb Williams passing for just 120 yards against New England, there was little opportunity for any Chicago receiver to do well. Odunze is a rising star, but in the short term, he may be limited by the Bears offense.
Published: Sun, Nov 10 at 6:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Showing rapport with Williams
Odunze recorded five receptions on seven targets for 104 yards in Sunday's 29-9 loss to the Cardinals.
Analysis: Odunze's role in Chicago's offense is becoming more consistent, as he has commanded 13 targets across the team's last two games combined. He made the most of his chances Sunday, highlighted by a 44-yard catch early in the second quarter when he broke free of Arizona's secondary. Odunze added three additional receptions of at least 15 yards, ultimately accounting for four of the team's five longest plays from scrimmage. While Keenan Allen remains Caleb Williams' favorite target, Odunze has…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 3 at 7:20pm by Rotowire.com
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Leading receiver in loss
Odunze recorded three receptions on six targets for 41 yards in Sunday's 18-15 loss to the Commanders. He added two rushes for 13 yards.
Analysis: Odunze ended with a modest stat line, but his ability to command opportunity stood out. Caleb Williams attempted only 24 passes in the low-scoring affair, which led to Odunze finishing second on the team in targets -- Keenan Allen earned seven -- while leading the way in receptions and yards. The Bears also made a point to get Odunze involved in the offense with two rushing attempts, another indication that he could see an expanded role throughout the second half of the season.
Published: Sun, Oct 27 at 7:56pm by Rotowire.com
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Solid yardage total in victory
Odunze caught two passes for 40 yards in the Bears' 35-16 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.
Analysis: In a game that Caleb Williams spread the ball around to his top five options, there wasn't enough volume for Odunze to have a big performance. Other than a 112-yard effort in Week 3, the rookie has yet to have more than 40 yards in a game. He's settling in as a low-upside option based on lack of consistent target volume.
Published: Sun, Oct 13 at 9:55am by Rotowire.com
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Five catches in Week 5 win
Odunze caught five of six targets for 40 yards in Sunday's 36-10 win over the Panthers.
Analysis: Odunze tied Keenan Allen for second on the team in targets, but DJ Moore continued to work as the clear leader in Chicago's passing game, turning his team-high eight targets into 105 yards and two touchdowns. Of Odunze's 206 receiving yards through five games, 112 came in a Week 3 outburst while Allen was sidelined by a heel injury. The rookie first-round pick's speed could give Jacksonville's struggling secondary trouble in Week 6, but Odunze has a low floor while battling Moore and Allen for…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 6 at 2:52pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited to one catch Sunday
Odunze secured one of three targets for 10 yards in the Bears' 24-18 win over the Rams on Sunday.
Analysis: The rookie shifted back to a No. 3 role with Keenan Allen returning from a two-game absence due to a heel injury, and he saw a major downturn in production as a result. Odunze's target and yardage totals were his lowest yet through four games, so he'll have plenty of room for improvement in a Week 5 home matchup against the Panthers.
Published: Sun, Sep 29 at 5:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Cleared to face Rams
Odunze (hip) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Rams.
Analysis: Odunze was a full practice participant Friday, after the Bears added him to their injury report Thursday as a limited participant. He's emerged as the top downfield target in Chicago -- coming off a 6-112-1 receiving line and league-high 235 air yards Week 3 against the Colts -- but Odunze's volume projection will get a modest bump downward if Keenan Allen (questionable, hip) ends up playing Sunday after progressing to full practice participation Friday.
Published: Fri, Sep 27 at 11:28am by Rotowire.com
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Tending to hip issue
Odunze practiced in a limited capacity Thursday due to a hip injury.
Analysis: Odunze is a midweek addition to the Bears' Week 4 practice report, but the current issue differs from the MCL sprain that he suffered in the season opener and impacted his practice reps during Weeks 2 and 3. He was able to tough out the injury the last two games while Keenan Allen (heel) was sidelined, combining for eight catches (on 16 targets) for 145 yards and one touchdown during that span. Allen has cobbled together back-to-back capped sessions this week, so their respective listings on…read more
Published: Thu, Sep 26 at 1:10pm by Rotowire.com
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Leading receiver in loss
Odunze caught six of 11 targets for 112 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 21-16 loss to the Colts.
Analysis: He added two rushing yards on one carry. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams threw his first two career TDs, and his fellow 2024 draftee Odunze was on the other end of the first one, a one-yard strike in the fourth quarter. With Keenan Allen (heel) out, the wideout's 11 targets were more than he saw in the first two games combined, and Odunze's role in the Chicago offense -- and his chemistry with Williams -- continues to grow ahead of a Week 4 clash with the Rams.
Published: Sun, Sep 22 at 2:37pm by Rotowire.com
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Good to go for Week 3
Odunze (knee) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Colts, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Odunze upgraded to full practice participation Friday after being limited the previous two days. He played 66 of Chicago's 70 snaps on offense in a Week 2 loss at Houston despite suffering an MCL sprain the week before in a win over Tennessee. Keenan Allen, meanwhile, is out for a second straight game with a heel injury.
Published: Fri, Sep 20 at 11:18am by Rotowire.com
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Stays limited Thursday
Odunze (knee) was limited in practice Thursday.
Analysis: Odunze now has a pair of capped sessions under his belt this week, which is one more than he managed during Week 2 prep before he was able to suit up this past Sunday in Houston. With Keenan Allen (heel) sidelined for that contest, Odunze earned 66 of 70 offensive snaps, but the huge workload didn't amount to much for him in the box score (two catches for 33 yards on five targets). Allen hasn't practiced this week and thus seems to be trending toward another absence Sunday at Indianapolis, so…read more
Published: Thu, Sep 19 at 1:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited in practice Wednesday
Odunze (knee) practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday.
Analysis: Odunze was capped to one limited session last week before the Bears deemed him questionable for this past Sunday's game at Houston. He ended up suiting up while fellow wide receiver Keenan Allen (heel) did not, but despite playing 66 of 70 offensive snaps, Odunze had just two catches (on five targets) for 33 yards. Odunze's limited session Wednesday indicates he's still dealing with the MCL sprain that he picked up Week 1, but he at least was able to mix into drills unlike Allen, who once again…read more
Published: Wed, Sep 18 at 1:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Nabs two receptions in loss
Odunze (knee) had two receptions off of five targets for 33 yards in Sunday's 19-13 loss to Houston.
Analysis: Chicago's QB/WR rookie starting duo continue to struggle two weeks into the season following synchronized duds on Sunday Night Football. Odunze had an opportunity late to make a leaping touchdown grab in the red zone, but the wideout from Washington dropped a high-point pass from Caleb Williams in the first half that hit him in the hands. There will be better days ahead for the Bears' offense as a whole, but it's tough to trust a player in fantasy that has provided just three receptions (on…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 15 at 9:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Suiting up in Week 2
Odunze (knee) is active for Sunday's game in Houston.
Analysis: Odunze came out of the Bears' season-opening win against the Titans with an MCL sprain, and while he sat out practice Wednesday and Thursday, he returned in a limited capacity to cap Week 2 prep and went into the weekend listed as questionable. Earlier Sunday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reported that Odunze was trending toward being available, which now has come to pass. With fellow WR Keenan Allen (heel) unavailable, Odunze will be among the Bears at the position available to QB Caleb Williams…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 15 at 3:55pm by Rotowire.com
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Looks likely to play Sunday
Odunze (knee), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Texans, is tracking toward playing, sources tell Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Analysis: After he was revealed to have sustained an MCL sprain to his left knee coming out of last Sunday's season-opening win over the Titans, Odunze looked as though he would face an uphill battle to play Week 2. Odunze didn't alleviate any concerns by failing to practice Wednesday or Thursday, but he upgraded to limited activity Friday and is apparently making good progress in his recovery from the injury. Along with Odunze, fellow wideout Keenan Allen (heel) is listed as questionable for Sunday, but…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 15 at 4:21am by Rotowire.com
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Practices, deemed questionable
Odunze (knee) returned to practice Friday as a limited participant and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Houston.
Analysis: In addition to Odunze, fellow wideout Keenan Allen (heel) is also listed as questionable ahead of Sunday's 8:20 p.m. ET kickoff. Allen didn't practice at all this week after aggravating his heel injury from August during a season-opening win over the Titans, while Odunze returned to practice Friday after suffering an MCL sprain this past Sunday. Both wide receivers should be treated as game-time decisions, although hints about their respective chances of playing may be provided well before…read more
Published: Fri, Sep 13 at 11:36am by Rotowire.com
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No practice Thursday
Odunze (knee) was a non-participant at Thursday's practice.
Analysis: Odunze emerged from Week 1 with an MCL sprain in his left knee, and while Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported Monday that the rookie wide receiver was considered week-to-week, coach Matt Eberflus told Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com on Wednesday that he was day-to-day. Back-to-back DNPs to begin this week isn't a great sign for Odunze, but he at least has one more session this week to put himself in a position to play Sunday at Houston. With Keenan Allen (heel) also sitting out Wednesday and…read more
Published: Thu, Sep 12 at 1:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Labeled day-to-day
Bears head coach Matt Eberflus said that Odunze (knee) will not practice Wednesday and is considered day-to-day, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Adam Schefter of ESPN reported Monday that Odunze was viewed as week-to-week after suffering an MCL sprain in Chicago's season-opening win over the Titans, but Eberflus offered a more encouraging label with regard to the rookie's recovery timeframe. Meanwhile, veteran wideout Keenan Allen (heel) is receiving a rest day Wednesday and will be evaluated further Thursday. Allen dealt with a heel injury in August and briefly entered the medical tent Week 1, but he was able to return the field. If…read more
Published: Wed, Sep 11 at 10:25am by Rotowire.com
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Has MCL sprain, deemed week-to-week
Odunze sustained an MCL sprain during Sunday's 24-17 win against the Titans and will be considered week-to-week, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Odunze emerged from his NFL debut with a knee injury, and after undergoing an MRI, he seems poised to miss some time. The rookie first-round pick didn't do much Week 1, hauling in only one of four targets for 11 yards while playing 43 of 56 offensive snaps. Assuming Odunze is sidelined this coming Sunday at Houston, DeAndre Carter and Velus Jones would be in line for additional reps behind starting wide receivers DJ Moore and Keenan Allen.
Published: Mon, Sep 9 at 4:13pm by Rotowire.com
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Getting MRI on knee injury
Coach Matt Eberflus said Odunze (knee) is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday, Scott Bair of Marquee Sports Network reports.
Analysis: Odunze appears to have picked up a knee injury during Sunday's 24-17 win over the Titans in which he secured one of four targets for 11 yards. The Bears will hope testing on the rookie ninth overall pick's knee injury doesn't reveal a serious issue, though Eberflus said the team is currently unable to estimate how concerning the issue might be, per Dan Wiederer of the Chicago Tribune. Chicago will take on Houston on the road Week 2.
Published: Mon, Sep 9 at 10:19am by Rotowire.com
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One catch in NFL debut
Odunze recorded one reception on four targets for 11 yards in Sunday's 24-17 win over the Titans.
Analysis: Perhaps unsurprisingly, Odunze had the quietest performance of the Bears' wide receiver trio. He made his lone catch and first as a pro with 1:30 left in the second quarter, which came off of a deflection on a pass that was not intended for him. Per Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic, Odunze was on the field for 40 of the Bears' 54 offensive snaps. That bodes well for his potential production moving forward despite a disappointing NFL debut.
Published: Sun, Sep 8 at 6:51pm by Rotowire.com
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Comes on strong in second quarter
Odunze caught one of two targets for 45 yards and took a carry for 16 yards in Saturday's preseason game against the Bengals.
Analysis: Odunze and Caleb Williams played the entire first half, while DJ Moore and Keenan Allen were removed after three drives (all three-and-outs). After a slow start, Odunze took a jet sweep for 16 yards on the fourth drive to help set up a field goal, then made a 45-yard catch on the fifth drive on a play where Williams scrambled around before throwing a dart on the run. Shortly thereafter, Williams had another incredible pass on the run to Odunze in the back of the end zone, but the wideout seemed…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 17 at 12:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Blanked in preseason debut
Odunze didn't catch his only target in Saturday's 33-6 preseason win over the Bills.
Analysis: Chicago's starters played two drives, and DJ Moore was the only wide receiver to record a catch over that span, notching two receptions for 27 yards. It was a quiet preseason debut for Odunze, who didn't play in the Hall of Fame Game last week. Odunze could be more involved in next Saturday's preseason game against the Bengals as the Bears try to get the rookie ninth overall pick some touches prior to the regular season.
Published: Sat, Aug 10 at 2:17pm by Rotowire.com
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Returns to practice
Odunze (hamstring) returned to practice Thursday, Patrick Finley of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.
Analysis: Odunze was featured in a video from practice catching a contested pass from rookie QB Caleb Williams. With the hamstring tightness behind him, the No. 9 overall pick will continue to build chemistry with Williams while working as the No. 3 receiver for now behind DJ Moore and Keenan Allen.
Published: Thu, May 30 at 9:28am by Rotowire.com
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Almost over hamstring issue
Odunze (hamstring) is expected to resume practicing next week, Patrick Finley of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.
Analysis: Odunze participated in Chicago's first practice during the team's rookie minicamp earlier this month, but subsequently encountered hamstring tightness, as Dan Weiderer of the Chicago Tribune reports. The Bears seem to have been taking a cautious approach to the recovery of the rookie No. 9 overall pick, but it doesn't look like there's any real concern about his injury. Odunze will have plenty more time this offseason to build chemistry with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, and to find his…read more
Published: Thu, May 23 at 12:02pm by Rotowire.com
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