Setting rookie-year expectations for Rome Odunze

The Chicago Bears already won the 2024 NFL draft lottery by landing the No. 1 overall pick thanks to last year’s pre-draft trade with the Carolina Panthers, but they also ended up with another top-10 selection of their own. After spending the top pick on a new franchise quarterback in Caleb Williams, the Bears landed him an elite pass-catching weapon in Rome Odunze at the No. 9 spot.

A complete receiver who would have easily been the first prospect off the board at his position in just about any other draft class that didn’t also include Marvin Harrison Jr. and Malik Nabers, Odunze is a polished, pro-ready prospect who has all the physical and mental traits to be a No. 1 receiver at the next level.

But what should Bears fans expect from Odunze in his rookie campaign?

There’s no denying Odunze’s elite talent, which is evidenced by his impressive film and strong production over the past two seasons at Washington, where he teamed up with quarterback Michael Penix Jr. to power the nation’s top-ranked passing offense in both years. He’s got the size, athleticism, physicality, body control, and route-running ability to beat defenders in whatever way is necessary on any particular play.

The only thing that will limit Odunze’s rookie-year production will be an offense that already features two top-shelf weapons in D.J. Moore and the recently acquired Keenan Allen, both of whom bring a ton of experience to the table that gives them an edge over Odunze. While the rookie is sure to develop a connection with Williams as both of their careers progress, it won’t be surprising if his immediate statistical output is lower than many might expect from a top-10 pick, if only because Moore and Allen will take plenty of targets for themselves as Odunze becomes acclimated to the pro game.

He’ll still make his share of big plays when the ball does come his way, but look for more quality than quantity from Odunze in his first pro season as he learns from the likes of Moore and Allen while growing alongside his new quarterback.