LAKE FOREST, Ill. (104.3 The Score) — Bears receiver Rome Odunze is in line to play in the team's season opener against the Panthers on Sunday.
Odunze suffered a lower leg injury during practice last Thursday at Halas Hall. He's considered day-to-day and will be sidelined from work Tuesday, though head coach Ben Johnson indicated Odunze is set to play in the opener.
“We’re hopeful he’ll be ready to go on Sunday,” Johnson said.
Odunze missed five games in 2025 while dealing with a lingering foot injury. He set off alarm bells this offseason by describing the injury as a “new normal,” but he later walked back those comments.
The Bears have lauded Odunze's play in training camp and the preseason. They're confident he isn't dealing with any further effects from the injury.
“I don't really think about it,” Odunze said in August. “Not something I really think about. Like I said, I just kind of go out there and play."
The Bears practiced Monday with a full complement of active players aside from Odunze. The team isn't required to issue its first injury report until Wednesday, an off day for players.
The Bears and Panthers kick off at noon CT on Sunday from Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.
Chris Emma covers the Bears and the Chicago sports scene for 104.3 The Score.
