With the introduction of a new weapon that resembles one of the NFL’s most dynamic playmakers, Deebo Samuel, the Chicago Bears may have just altered the offensive landscape and, potentially, the NFC North. After a spectacular start at the Bears rookie minicamp, Rome Odunze, a rookie wide receiver selected ninth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, is already being compared to the 49ers’ all-purpose great.
During practice, Odunze, who was a standout player at Washington due to his accurate route running, exceptional ball-tracking abilities, and physicality after the catch, was used everywhere on the field. In a move reminiscent of Kyle Shanahan unleashing Samuel on defenders throughout the league, Bears coaches lined him up outside, in the slot, and even motioned him into the backfield.
Shane Waldron, the offensive coordinator for the Bears, described Rome as a Swiss Army knife. He is a playmaker as well as a receiver. He possesses the mentality and fortitude to be used creatively by us.
Odunze, like Deebo, doesn’t mind being touched. He has a remarkable ability to gain yards after contact and excels in contested reception situations. Like Samuel in San Francisco, he has the size and aggression to be a bully with the ball in his hands because he is 6′ 3″ and 215 pounds.
Odunze’s addition to an offense that already includes DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and recently selected quarterback Caleb Williams combines young, diverse talent, explosive speed, and veteran savvy in a powerful way.
Additionally, it provides Waldron and head coach Matt Eberflus with additional opportunities to take advantage of mismatches, something Chicago hasn’t had for years.
With Odunze’s arrival, the Bears may finally have a true offensive identity, something they haven’t had since the days of Matt Forte and Brandon Marshall. Chicago wants to change its reputation and adopt an attack that is quick, aggressive, and unexpected. Odunze has the ability to run screens, take handoffs, and spread the field vertically. As such, he has the potential to become the Bears’ Samuel, a versatile player who sets the tone.
Every indication suggests that Chicago is about to unleash a budding star. The Bears may have finally discovered their Deebo, so the rest of the NFC North had best pay attention if Rome Odunze keeps growing like this.
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