Why Bears WR Rome Odunze is a nightmare for opponents

The Chicago Bears already had one star wide receiver in D.J. Moore, but that didn’t stop them from trading for another one in Keenan Allen this offseason.

Neither of those veterans prevented the Bears from spending a top-10 pick on yet another pass-catcher in the 2024 NFL draft, as Washington’s Rome Odunze will be joining the party for rookie quarterback and No. 1 overall selection Caleb Williams.

One of the most polished and complete receiver prospects in recent memory, Odunze brings a pro-ready skill set that should allow him to make an immediate impact.

NFL film guru Doug Farrar recently broke down what makes Odunze such a tough assignment for opposing defenders, particularly against press-man coverage:

Rome Odunze’s ability to beat press by playing half a man and crossing a cornerback’s face, combined with his ability to turn 50/50 balls to 80/20 in his favor? It all makes him a nightmare to cover. pic.twitter.com/NzYaRjY3A1

— Doug Farrar ? (@NFL_DougFarrar) July 1, 2024

Odunze’s task will obviously be tougher against NFL competition, but his intelligence and technique should allow him to be a quick study at the next level, giving Williams an elite target to grow with over their careers in Chicago.