Bears Rookie Rome Odunze Expected to Return to Practice Next Week
The Chicago Bears are deep into their organized team activities (OTAs), which kicked off earlier this week and run through the end of May. However, the team has faced several notable absences, typical for voluntary workouts. Among these is rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze, sidelined due to a hamstring issue.
Odunze, selected ninth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, missed the final practice of rookie minicamp due to hamstring tightness. The Bears are taking a cautious approach to his recovery, ensuring he is not rushed back onto the field prematurely.
Head coach Matt Eberflus provided a promising update, announcing that Odunze is expected to return to practice next week. On Thursday, Odunze was observed doing light work and stretching, indicating that his recovery is progressing well.
Odunze is part of a dynamic draft class for the Bears, which includes the No. 1 overall pick, quarterback Caleb Williams. He joins a formidable receiving corps featuring stars DJ Moore and Keenan Allen. While Odunze has yet to fully practice with his veteran teammates, he has already begun building chemistry with Williams, both prior to and following the draft, and during rookie minicamp. This rapport is anticipated to strengthen once Odunze reenters full practice.
The Bears and their fans are eagerly awaiting Odunze’s return, looking forward to seeing the rookie wide receiver’s impact on the field in the upcoming season.
