(670 The Score) In the 2024 NFL Draft, the Bears paired quarterback Caleb Williams with receiver Rome Odunze by selecting them as top picks.
Williams was the first overall pick while Odunze went with the No. 9 pick. As rookies, the two connected for 54 receptions, 734 yards and three scores. They each flashed promise in a disappointing 5-12 season for the Bears that resulted in the coaching staff getting fired.
The hope now is that new Bears head coach Ben Johnson can maximize Williams in his second NFL season. In turn, that could lead to a strong campaign for Odunze.
“I mean, this is an explosive offense,” Odunze said. “I think Ben and the crew have great offensive minds. So, I feel like they can help put me in positions to succeed. That's all I can ask for. At the end of the day, I have to go out there and make the plays and get the job done regardless.
“I feel like it's brewing, for sure."
The Bears struggled considerably on offense in 2024, which led to significant changes. The team fired offensive coordinator Shane Waldron in November after he was on the job for just nine games. Head coach Matt Eberflus was fired a few weeks later.
Johnson was hired by the Bears in January, bringing with him a new offensive scheme and renewed expectations. The Bears also selected receiver Luther Burden III with the 39th overall pick in the second round, adding him to an improved offense.
Odunze is among players whom the Bears hope can benefit from Johnson.
“I’m extremely impressed,” Johnson said of Odunze. “To be a second-year guy, you would expect a little bit more inconsistency. And yet the way he approaches the meeting room, the walk-through, the drill work, it’s very much like a seasoned pro. Some of the best that I've been around.”
During his personal training leading into the Bears’ offseason, Odunze focused on adding lean mass to his 6-foot-3 frame. Beyond that, the biggest difference for Odunze during his second NFL season will be his experience level. He feels the game slowing down for him after a year in the NFL.
After making significant changes, the Bears believe Odunze and Williams will thrive together in 2025.
“Just kind of put myself in peak condition, spiritually, mentally, physically, for this season, for me to have the best season yet that I’ve had in this league,” Odunze said. “So, that comes to a lot of different aspects, to focusing on the playbook, focusing on the weight room, getting faster, getting stronger, all those different things.
“I like to think about the team and making the playoffs and winning football games. Individually, I want to go for 1,000 (yards), double-digit (touchdowns). I haven’t honed in on any specific numbers yet, but I’ve always got those things in the back of my mind. I think when you’re doing the right things and you’re having success and the team is having success, all the statistics and those numbers will come.”
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.