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Rome Odunze Looks Healthy as Bears Move to Feature His Deep, Contested Skills

Rehabilitated foot, top times on the camp speed board and technical gains will be tested in a joint practice with the Bengals to inform Chicago's 2026 game plan.

Overview

  • Odunze said Wednesday that his previously injured right foot feels great and that it no longer limits him during practice.
  • Coaches and reporters have noted Odunze running near the top of the daily speed board and showing smooth cuts and sustained game speed in training camp.
  • He is focusing this offseason on catch point, contested catches, route detail and yards after catch as part of a broader effort to become the Bears' primary outside receiver.
  • Offensive staff have added more downfield, contested-shot concepts to the playbook to leverage Odunze's size and jump-ball ability, and a joint practice with the Bengals will be an early live test of those designs.
  • The Bears still face thin receiver depth if injuries recur, and Odunze's availability will shape game plans and factor into decisions about his long-term contract status, including a fifth-year option decision after the 2026 season.