Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze is set to return to the lineup for the NFC Wild Card Round against the Green Bay Packers on December 9, 2023, after missing five games due to a foot injury. Odunze participated fully in Thursday’s practice and has been cleared of any injury concerns, bringing hope to Bears fans as they enter a critical playoff matchup.
The 23-year-old receiver expressed his eagerness to contribute, stating, “I can definitely provide an asset to this offense.” After being sidelined for five weeks, Odunze described the emotional toll of watching his team from the sidelines. “It’s tough being out for five weeks… not being able to contribute,” he said. “As long as I have the option to be out there and contribute, I’m going to give it my all. I believe I can make a difference.”
Odunze has dealt with a stress fracture in his foot since late October. His last appearance came in Week 13 when the Bears secured a 24-15 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, where he recorded two catches for eight yards. Following that game, he was ruled out against the Packers in Week 14. Although he attempted a comeback against the Cleveland Browns, he experienced a setback during warmups, resulting in his withdrawal from that game as well. Subsequently, the Bears decided to rest Odunze for the remainder of the regular season.
Bears head coach Ben Johnson acknowledged the player’s determination to return. “I know he wants to be out there helping,” Johnson said on December 7. “It’s hard to tell him no sometimes. He just wants to be on the field competing and contributing.” Johnson added that the team may need to protect Odunze from himself to ensure he is fully ready for the playoff challenge ahead.
While Odunze is eager to play, offensive coordinator Declan Doyle indicated that he may have a reduced role initially. Odunze admitted that he is not in “peak shape,” but has worked diligently to maintain his conditioning. “There might be some limitations, those are still to be discussed,” he noted. He emphasized his desire to contribute as much as possible, saying, “At the end of the day, it’s all or nothing for this game to make it to the Super Bowl until the end of the season.”
The Bears are also monitoring the health of several other players ahead of the matchup. Wide receivers DJ Moore and Jahdae Walker, left tackle Ozzy Trapilo, and cornerbacks Nick McCloud and Jaylon Jones do not carry injury designations for Saturday’s game. Meanwhile, cornerback Kyler Gordon and offensive tackle Braxton Jones participated fully in Thursday’s practice and await activation off injured reserve, although both are listed as questionable.
As the Bears prepare for their playoff run, Odunze’s return could provide a much-needed boost to their offense against a formidable opponent in the Packers. The upcoming game will be pivotal not just for Odunze, but for the entire team’s aspirations for postseason success.
