The Bears selected wide receiver Rome Odunze with their ninth overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, with the primary focus on what he can bring to the offense. However, his versatility as a player may also benefit the special teams unit. Bears special teams coordinator Richard Hightower praised Odunze as a four-down player who has exceptional return skills and can impact all aspects of the game.
Despite limited experience in returning punts during college, Odunze managed to secure a Pac-12 Special-Teams Player of the Week award last season after an impressive 83-yard touchdown return. Hightower emphasized that Odunze is capable of contributing on every down and highlighted his exceptional return skills that resulted in a touchdown. Although it remains uncertain whether Odunze will secure the punt returner job in Chicago, Hightower noted that he is a strong contender for the position, emphasizing that the competition will determine the best candidate for the role.
The Bears will have to weigh the potential benefits of having Odunze on special teams against the risks of injury. While there may be concerns about the latter, there is no denying Odunze’s playmaking abilities and potential impact on the return game. Ultimately, the decision on Odunze’s role in special teams will depend on a variety of factors, including his skills and the team’s assessment of the overall value he can bring to that aspect of the game.
