In Week 8, Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze delivered an impressive performance against the Arizona Cardinals, showcasing his potential with five catches for 104 yards despite not scoring a touchdown. Among his receptions was a standout 44-yard play, which represented one of the few explosive moments for the Bears' offense throughout the game. Since the Bears' bye week, Odunze has experienced a notable uptick in his production, a common trend for rookie wide receivers as they gain confidence and familiarity with the game at the professional level. His performance against the Cardinals further solidified his role within the offense, as he received seven targets, indicating that he has quickly become one of quarterback Caleb Williams's preferred options. As the season progresses, it will be exciting to see how Odunze continues to develop and contribute to the Bears' passing attack. Fantasy managers hope he continues his breakout against the New England Patriots next week.
Nov 4, 2024 5:25 AM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze has the potential for a strong performance this Sunday as he faces a vulnerable Arizona Cardinals secondary. Last week, Odunze led all Bears receivers with 41 yards against the Washington Commanders, a reflection of the team's overall struggles in the passing game. However, his six targets indicate that he is starting to carve out a role in the offense, which is often the case for rookie wideouts who gain traction as the season progresses. Given the Cardinals' defensive struggles ranking 30th in EPA per pass this season Odunze has a prime opportunity to capitalize on his targets. If he can continue to earn looks and leverage the matchup, he could emerge as a valuable asset for fantasy managers. This week, all eyes will be on Odunze to see if he can take advantage of the favorable conditions and elevate his game.
Nov 2, 2024 7:43 AM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze had a modest performance against the Washington Commanders in Week 8, finishing with three catches for 41 yards and no touchdowns. It's challenging for any receiver to shine when the quarterback manages only ten completions for a total of 131 yards. Odunze's 41 yards unfortunately led all Bears receivers, highlighting the limited offensive production. He was targeted six times, indicating that quarterback Caleb Williams views him as a go-to option, even if some passes were off-target. Odunze will aim to bounce back next week in a favorable matchup against the weaker Arizona Cardinals defense.
Oct 28, 2024 12:00 PM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze has the potential for a solid performance this Sunday against a vulnerable Washington Commanders secondary. While Odunze has primarily been quiet this season, he has made some impressive plays, with his standout performance coming against the Colts. The challenge lies in the Bears' depth of weapons, which results in fewer opportunities for Odunze to shine. He has shown flashes of the production you'd expect from a top-ten pick, but starting him remains a gamble unless you're desperate for a flex option. With no byes this week, you likely have better choices, but if you're seeking a high-upside play, Odunze could be worth considering.
Oct 26, 2024 6:16 AM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze had a modest outing against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 6, catching two passes for 40 yards and no touchdowns. One highlight was his impressive 28-yard reception, showcasing his strong playability. However, with Cole Kmet and Keenan Allen enjoying standout performances in the passing game, Odunze didn't see enough opportunities to make a significant impact. This marks the second time he has received three targets or fewer in three weeks. With all three receivers and Kmet healthy, the Bears' receiving hierarchy appears to be taking shape, positioning Odunze as the fourth option. The Bears will have a bye week next week before facing the Commanders in Week 8.
Oct 14, 2024 6:06 AM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze is poised for a bounce-back performance this Sunday against a vulnerable Jacksonville Jaguars secondary. Last week, he had a quieter outing by his standards, catching five passes for 40 yards against the Carolina Panthers. However, he has a great opportunity to rebound against the Jaguars, who recently allowed 291 total yards and two touchdowns to the Colts' wide receivers in Week 5. The Jaguars have also given up the second-most receiving yards to opposing wideouts this season. Although it's a high-risk play, Odunze has the potential to deliver big numbers against a weak secondary, as he demonstrated against the Colts. If you're dealing with injuries or bye weeks, consider starting Odunze as a borderline flex option in this favorable matchup.
Oct 12, 2024 7:27 AM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze had a solid yet modest performance against the Carolina Panthers in Week 5, catching five passes for 40 yards. He tied with Keenan Allen for second on the team in targets, but DJ Moore remained the clear standout in Chicago's passing attack. Notably, this season, 112 of Odunze's 206 receiving yards came during a Week 3 breakout while Allen was sidelined with a heel injury. As the Bears head into a Week 6 matchup against Jacksonville's struggling secondary, Odunze has the potential to make an impact. However, his low floor is a concern as he competes with Moore and Allen for targets in the offense.
Oct 7, 2024 7:58 AM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze is set for a bounce back this Sunday against a vulnerable Carolina Panthers secondary. In Week 5, Odunze will go up against the 19th-ranked pass defense in the league, allowing an average of 209.3 yards per game an encouraging matchup for him. He has a chance to score this week, as the Panthers have surrendered multiple touchdown passes in every game this season. Last week, Caleb Williams missed Odunze on a potential deep touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams, but both players are improving with each game. While Odunze's long-term potential is clear, his current 14.9% target rate ranking 78th among wide receivers makes him less appealing as a fantasy starter. He won't be a reliable option until the Bears' offense finds its rhythm or Odunze surpasses Allen in targets. However, with a favorable matchup against the Panthers, he could see the end zone, positioning him as a WR4 with significant risks and potential rewards.
Oct 5, 2024 3:00 AM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze had a quiet outing in Week 4 against the Los Angeles Rams, catching just one of his three targets for ten yards. This performance was a letdown after his breakout game the previous week. The return of veteran receiver Keenan Allen (heel) likely affected Odunze's targets, as he shifted back to a No. 3 role with Allen coming off a two-game absence. Consequently, Odunze saw a notable decline in production. Throughout his rookie season, he has struggled to make a consistent impact, recording two or fewer receptions in three of four games. His target and yardage totals this week marked his lowest yet, leaving him with ample opportunity for improvement in a Week 5 home matchup against the Panthers.
Sep 30, 2024 11:58 AM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze (hip) has been removed from the injury report ahead of the Week 4 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. The rookie wideout popped up on the injury report on Thursday when he was limited in practice. However, he was able to get through a full session on Friday and appears to be fine heading into the weekend. Odunze finished with over 100 yards and a touchdown last week, but he could see a dip in usage going forward. Fellow wide receiver Keenan Allen (heel) was a full participant during Friday's practice and is questionable to play on Sunday. This would be Allen's first time suiting up since the season opener. He saw 11 targets in Week 1 and figures to be an important part of the offense going forward. Odunze should be in the mix as a low-end WR3 for Week 4.
Sep 27, 2024 2:46 PM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze (hip) was limited during Thursday's practice due to a hip injury, according to Jonathan Jones of CBS. The Washington product was not on Wednesday's initial injury report, but seeing that he was only limited suggests it might not be a serious injury. Fantasy managers should pay close attention to Friday's injury report as it should provide clarity on the 22-year-old's status heading into the weekend. After two quiet outings in his first two professional games, the ninth-overall pick enjoyed a nice breakout last weekend as he caught six passes for 112 yards and a score. Odunze should be considered a WR3 with upside if he is a "full-go" against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday.
Sep 26, 2024 4:19 PM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze had a standout performance in Week 3 against the Indianapolis Colts. He recorded six receptions for 112 yards and scored his first touchdown. While tight end Cole Kmet (10 catches) and receiver DJ Moore (8 catches) had more receptions, Odunze still topped the team in receiving yards. His 11 targets were more than he received in the first two games combined, highlighting his growing role in the Bears' offense. Against the Colts, Odunze demonstrated the skills that made him a top-10 draft pick, running precise routes, showcasing impressive speed, and displaying excellent ball-tracking ability. The Bears also attempted to utilize him in the rushing game against the Colts' weak defense, but his rushing attempt gained minimal yards. With Keenan Allen (heel) sidelined, it was encouraging to see Odunze step up. He will aim to build on this performance in Week 4 against a Rams team that recently allowed Jauan Jennings to look like prime Jerry Rice.
Sep 23, 2024 12:16 PM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze aims to turn around his quiet start to the season this Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts. His role has been particularly frustrating for fans, as offensive coordinator Shane Waldron has yet to utilize his elite skill set fully. Odunze managed only two receptions against the Texans, with a missed opportunity in the end zone overshadowing his performance. However, his struggles aren't solely on him; finding a rhythm is challenging when he's not consistently targeted. Odunze will look to rebound against a vulnerable Colts passing defense. The Colts secondary has the second-worst expected points added per dropback against outside wide receivers, allowing a 75% catch rate and tons of receiving yards to wideouts. With fellow wide receiver Keenan Allen (heel) not playing, Odunze could see an uptick in targets. However, with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams averaging just 134 yards and no touchdowns through the air, there may not be enough volume to support even one wide receiver, let alone three. Unless fantasy managers are desperate and Allen is ruled out, Odunze should remain on fantasy benches this week.
Sep 21, 2024 1:54 AM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze (knee) has been removed from the injury report ahead of Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts. The rookie wideout played through a knee issue last week, but Odunze appears to be fine now. He's set for an increased workload with fellow wideout Keenan Allen (heel) ruled out for this game. Odunze has three receptions for 44 yards through two games. The Bears can't seem to move the ball right now, which makes Odunze a tough fantasy play. He should be considered a shaky flex option for Week 3.
Sep 20, 2024 2:30 PM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze (knee) was limited for the second straight day in practice this week on Thursday. Odunze picked up a knee injury in the Week 1 win over the Tennessee Titans but managed to suit up for last Sunday night's loss to the Houston Texans in a game in which Keenan Allen (heel) did not play. Odunze failed to capitalize with Allen out, though, with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams struggling again. The 22-year-old wideout caught two of five targets for 33 yards and has just three receptions on nine targets for 44 yards in his first two NFL contests. Odunze's fantasy value for Week 3 against the Indianapolis Colts hinges on whether Allen, who has yet to practice this week, is able to return. If Allen misses a second straight contest, Odunze will be a boom/bust WR4/flex play for fantasy managers as the WR2 in Chicago behind DJ Moore.
Sep 19, 2024 6:52 PM EST
Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (knee) was officially a limited participant on Wednesday ahead of the third week of NFL action. Odunze suffered the injury during Chicago's Week 1 win over the Tennessee Titans. However, he was still able to suit up in Week 2, finishing his day with two catches and 33 yards on 94% of snaps. It's encouraging for the rookie's prospects of being able to dress for Sunday's road matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. On the other hand, teammate Keenan Allen (heel) was held out of practice yet again to start the week. If the rookie wideout can play, he projects to be quarterback Caleb Williams' second option in the passing attack against a porous Colts defense. Still, he'll be tough to trust as a viable option until his first-year signal-caller exhibits a bit more poise in the pocket.
Sep 18, 2024 9:37 PM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze (knee) had a subdued performance in Week 2 against the Houston Texans, catching only two passes for 33 yards while playing through an injury. With the Bears still struggling to find a passing touchdown after eight quarters of action, Odunze has seen limited volume and no scoring opportunities. The team's offensive line also struggled, with Caleb Williams being sacked seven times, and Williams has yet to throw a touchdown or exceed 200 passing yards in the first two games. Despite the challenges, there is potential for the Bears' offense to improve. However, with just three receptions on nine targets and no touchdowns so far, Odunze is a risky fantasy option. His next chance to make an impact will come in Week 3 against Indianapolis, where he should be on fantasy benches.
Sep 16, 2024 2:50 AM EST
Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (knee) will play against the Texans on Sunday night. The wideout was a game-time call for Week 2 after logging one practice session during the week. Fortunately, he's good to go and may see more attention from Caleb Williams, especially since Keenan Allen (heel) is inactive. The rookie deserves flex attention in 12-team leagues and up. However, DJ Moore and Cole Kmet will likely benefit the most from Allen's absence.
Sep 15, 2024 7:07 PM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze (knee) is listed as questionable ahead of the Week 2 matchup against the Houston Texans. The rookie wideout suffered a knee injury in Week 1 that was revealed to be a low-grade MCL sprain. He missed the first two days of practice this week before returning on Friday for a limited session. The fact that Odunze was able to suit up for practice on Friday is a good sign. However, he still remains questionable alongside fellow wideout Keenan Allen (heel) ahead of Sunday's game. The absence of both players should mean DJ Moore would see his usage skyrocket.
Sep 13, 2024 2:55 PM EST
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze (knee) did not practice again on Thursday, according to ESPN's Senior NFL Insider Adam Schefter. Odunze suffered an MCL sprain in the season opener but was considered to be "day-to-day" according to Chicago head coach Matt Eberflus on Wednesday. The ninth-overall pick in this year's draft was held to just one catch for 11 yards in his regular-season debut. However, he saw the second-highest total snaps among Chicago wideouts, which is a promising sign going forward. Fantasy managers should look to find an alternate option for Odunze, as he may play in a limited capacity if he does suit up for their Week 2 matchup against the Houston Texans.
Sep 12, 2024 4:42 PM EST