Heading into the 2024 season, the Chicago Bears were one of the most talked-about teams, largely due to the excitement surrounding their rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze. Both players were selected as the No. 1 and No. 9 picks in the NFL draft, sparking high expectations for their immediate impact on the team.
However, the Bears’ season didn’t live up to the hype. Despite the optimism surrounding Williams and Odunze, the team finished with a disappointing 5-12 record, enduring a 10-game losing streak at one point, which added to the frustration of a rough season in Chicago.
Things are looking up, though, as the Bears have made significant changes that could turn their fortunes around. The team has hired a new head coach, Ben Johnson, known for his expertise with quarterbacks. Johnson is the mastermind behind the Detroit Lions’ high-powered offense, which has dominated the NFC North in recent years. Under his guidance, the Lions won two division titles and came close to reaching the Super Bowl two years ago, making his addition to the Bears’ coaching staff an exciting development.
Additionally, the Bears have significantly improved their offensive line, bringing in two new guards and a new center, all expected to start in 2025. These upgrades should provide Caleb Williams with much-needed protection, giving him more time to develop into the player the Bears hope he will become.
There’s also speculation that the Bears may part ways with wide receiver Keenan Allen, who they traded for last season. If this happens, it could open up more opportunities for Rome Odunze to step up and play a larger role in the offense, further boosting his potential.
According to Alex Kay from Bleacher Report, both Williams and Odunze are expected to have breakout sophomore seasons, with Odunze in particular set to make a significant leap in Year 2. Kay notes that with fewer competitors for targets and more time for Williams to throw, Odunze could take his game to the next level, potentially making the Pro Bowl in 2025.
Odunze is entering the second year of his four-year, $22.7 million rookie contract, and with the improvements around him, he is in a prime position to capitalize on the opportunities ahead.