The Chicago Bears will host the Minnesota Vikings in Week 1. Here’s the latest fantasy football news and advice to help you with your lineups this week and moving forward, specifically regarding WR Rome Odunze.
Is Rome Odunze Playing in Week 1?
Odunze is not listed on the injury report this week, so barring any setbacks, he will play.
We’ll continue to monitor the Bears’ injury report leading up to kickoff for any changes. You can also visit and bookmark our Fantasy News Tracker for the latest updates.
Should You Start or Sit Rome Odunze in Week 1?
Rome Odunze is one of those players who is so trendy that it makes you want to push back. Fading the public is something I’m essentially on board with, but I can’t hear.
In a season of disarray with a rookie quarterback, he posted the same fantasy points per catch average as Xavier Worthy. He wasn’t far behind the Kansas City speedster regarding yards per route.
The argument for Odunze isn’t standing on what he did last season, but rather on what is possible this year. Caleb Williams is naturally going to be more comfortable with the professional game’s speed, and Ben Johnson’s impact can’t be overstated.
Odunze was efficient on those quick-hitting routes as a rookie (31 catches on 41 targets that traveled less than 10 yards down the field), a skill I expect to be on display against the ultra-aggressive Vikings.
We are looking at a receiver who is in the flex conversation. I wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to play either 49er receiver over him or felt safer in the skill set of a Jakobi Meyers type to open the season. That said, I have Odunze much closer to WR1 in this offense than WR3, and I expect this team to take a step forward sooner rather than later.
Are you looking for start/sit advice for other players in your lineup? Read our Week 1 Fantasy Football Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em article.
Rome Odunze’s Fantasy Points Projection in Week 1
Odunze is projected to score 11.8 points in PPR formats. This includes 4.3 receptions for 58.7 yards and 0.2 touchdowns.
Check out the free PFSN Fantasy Start-Sit Optimizer for the latest projections and advice for your lineups this week.
Week 1 Weather Impact: Bears vs Vikings
Weather could significantly impact this outdoor game with temperatures at 64 degrees Fahrenheit and strong winds of 16 mph. The wind will likely affect the passing and kicking games, potentially favoring rushing attacks.
