As the Chicago Bears continue their journey through the gauntlet to close out the season, a new off-the-field distraction has emerged.
Yesterday, a Bears fan took to X, the app formerly known as Twitter, and voiced his complaints about the team, in particular rookie receiver Rome Odunze. In the X post, the fan claimed the rookie would have 1,100 yards on any other NFC North team. James Odunze, Rome's father, agreed.
In James' repost, the father upped the stats to 1,500.
1,500 https://t.co/GO6SSGlWDv
— JAMES ODUNZE (@JamesOdunze) December 10, 2024
Odunze has had two 100-yard games – six catches for 112 yards and a TD in Week 3 and five catches for 104 yards in Week 9. His worst outing was in the Bears' season opener when he recorded one reception for 11 yards.
In this faulty offensive system, DJ Moore is clearly Caleb Williams' No. 1 target – 68 receptions (12th) for 712 yards (28th) and five TDS. Even with veteran WR Keenan Allen missing some time on the field, he has more receptions (47) and TDS (five) than the rookie wideout. What was dubbed the "best situation" a rookie quarterback could come into has quickly dissipated any and all expectations. Changing the coaching personnel midseason didn't make it any it any better.
But could Odunze really perform for the Bears' division rivals?
(Photo: Brooke Sutton, Getty)
If Odunze was a member of the Green Bay Packers, he could probably have a 1,000-yard season. Heading into Week 15, Jaydeen Reed is leading the Packers' receiving corps with 44 receptions, 693 yards and six TDS. Right behind Reed is Christian Watson – 26 catches for 564 yards and two scores. The Packers offense is young and is only getting better, but it's hard to deny the impact a talent like Odunze would have for Jordan Love and the offensive unit.
Just like the Packers, the Detroit Lions have two receivers and a tight end as the main pass catchers. WR2 Jameson Williams has less receptions (39) than Odunze but has 710 receiving yards. That is a testament to the dynamic offense of the Lions, one Odunze would greatly benefit from.
As for the Minnesota Vikings, their most recent win has shown that they might have the best WR-duo in the league with Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. It's hard to picture Odunze making a splash with the likes of those two ahead of him.
Hopefully the Bears are able to land the right coaching staff that will unlock the talents of both their rookies.