Rome Odunze Toyed With The Panthers And Everyone Missed It

It was a solid afternoon for Rome Odunze on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. He made five catches for 40 yards and drew a pass interference penalty that helped set up an easy one-yard touchdown by Roschon Johnson. It may not have been the offensive explosion fans want to see more of from the Chicago Bears‘ 9th overall pick, but it was another reminder that he is a definite factor in their passing game. Upon further review, Carolina should actually be grateful that Caleb Williams only targeted Odunze six times.

If the quarterback had looked that way a few more times, especially in the second half, it would’ve been a massacre. There were multiple instances where Odunze didn’t just get open but wide open. Two of them took place on Williams scrambles. Had the quarterback looked his way either time, it would’ve been huge plays and possibly touchdowns. It was amazing how easily the rookie seemed to find open space against the Panthers’ zone. What made it even crazier is they seldom tried to press him, indicating they knew what they were up against.

Rome Odunze would be feasting in any other offense.

That isn’t a knock on the Bears. It is a reminder of how much more talented this receiving group has become. Williams has the job of spreading the ball around to guys like D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, and Cole Kmet. Sometimes, the targets just won’t come your way, even if they should. Odunze would love to get the ball more, but he’s not a selfish player. He has repeatedly stated that he will do whatever is asked of him. It seems to be working out well for the team after back-to-back wins.

That said, Shane Waldron should really lean on Williams to look for Rome Odunze more often. It is beyond evident the young receiver is getting open. His degree of separation is among the NFL’s best through the first five weeks. This is not a player who needs steady development. He is ready now. The only thing lacking is more opportunities. If the Carolina game is any indication, teams should be grateful the Bears haven’t quite figured this out yet.