The Chicago Bears are coming off a disappointing season and have brought in former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to turn things around and elevate the franchise. With optimism running high and expectations growing, much of the focus this year is on second-year quarterback Caleb Williams.
However, according to the Athletic, the real breakout candidate isn’t Williams.
Instead, they’re pointing to wide receiver Rome Odunze, the Bears’ second first-round pick in 2024, as the player to watch. Though his rookie season flew somewhat under the radar, the former Washington Husky is set to make a significant leap this season.
“It’s cliché to choose the second-year, top-10 pick,” wrote Kevin Fishbain, Senior Athletic Writer for the Athletic. “But Odunze’s rookie year seemed more disappointing than it really was. He finished fifth among rookies in receiving yards (734) and caught just over half of the passes thrown his way. He was a clear example of the inconsistency that plagued Chicago’s offense last year. When he fell short of expectations, it wasn’t due to drops or poor route-running. With a better scheme and improved quarterback play, he should really take off in his second season.”
