The Chicago Bears drafted wide receiver Rome Odunze with the ninth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, shortly after selecting quarterback Caleb Williams. Expectations were high for both players to lift the Bears’ offense, but the 2024 season turned out to be disappointing for the franchise. Neither Williams nor Odunze met the lofty predictions placed on their shoulders, contributing to the Bears missing the playoffs and failing to achieve a winning record.
Williams recorded 3,541 passing yards with 20 touchdowns and six interceptions, while Odunze finished with 54 receptions, 734 yards, and three receiving touchdowns. Odunze’s production translated to a fantasy ranking of WR49 PPR, scoring 144.90 points, which averaged out to 8.5 points per game.
Factors Influencing Odunze’s Potential for 2025
Despite a modest rookie season, Odunze has reasons for optimism heading into 2025. The Bears hired offensive-minded head coach Ben Johnson, signaling a possible shift in offensive dynamics. With Williams entering his second NFL season and gaining experience, plus the departure of veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen, Odunze could see an increased role and more targets in the passing game.
Evaluating Odunze’s Fantasy Value for the Upcoming Season
Rome Odunze possesses the talent to become a reliable focal point in Chicago’s offense. Known for his speed, agility, strong hands, and ability to win contested catches, Odunze offers upside for fantasy managers. Currently, Fantasy Pros projects him as the WR36 and the 79th overall player in upcoming fantasy football drafts, meaning he can typically be selected in the latter part of the eighth round.
While some uncertainty remains over the Bears’ overall performance in 2025, Odunze can be regarded as a dependable WR3 option with the potential to rise into a high-end WR2, depending on how the team’s offensive chemistry unfolds.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Rome Odunze a deep threat?
A. Rome Odunze struggled in Chicago’s poor offensive system last year. He had the highest inaccurate target rate (26.7%) for wide receivers with over 100 targets. People mostly considered him a deep threat, even though he has top-level skills. In his second year, his role is expected to grow. For complete wide receiver rankings, visit sharpfootballanalysis.com/fantasy/rankings.