The Chicago Bears’ offense is filled with talent, as D’Andre Swift, Kyle Monangai, DJ Moore, Luther Burden, Colston Loveland, and Rome Odunze all play key roles.
Chicago took a hit in that department, however, when it was announced that Odunze is dealing with a foot injury. Here is the latest update on his status, along with his expected return date.
What Happened to Rome Odunze?
On Friday, Dec. 5, the Chicago Bears announced that second-year wide receiver Rome Odunze would be out for Week 14. Odunze recorded three straight DNPs to open the week before the team officially ruled him out due to his foot injury.
The news came as a surprise since Odunze was not listed on the injury report ahead of Week 13, and nothing that happened that week suggested an in-game setback.
A few hours later, Tom Pelissero provided clarity, reporting that Odunze has been playing through a stress fracture in his foot. Pelissero also noted that Odunze is considered week-to-week and is expected to return sooner rather than later.
Shortly after that update, sports medicine expert Dr. Jesse Morse further broke down the injury on X, explaining that a stress fracture typically keeps players sidelined for about six weeks. Morse warned that returning too quickly can lead to a complete fracture that would require surgery involving a screw or plate. He even suggested the Bears should place Odunze on injured reserve, believing rest would be the safest option.
The team is still waiting for additional updates, but Chicago does not appear inclined to place Odunze on IR and seems focused on getting him back on the field when he is ready.
Looking ahead at potential return options, the Bears host the Cleveland Browns on Sunday afternoon in Week 15, followed by a Saturday night game against the Green Bay Packers in Week 16. Both spots seem a bit early for a return, especially considering the long-term risks associated with the injury.
Week 17 may be more realistic. The Bears travel to San Francisco to face the 49ers on Sunday Night Football, and that matchup gives Odunze more time to work back from the injury. Chicago then closes the season with a key divisional matchup against the Detroit Lions, a game that could carry significant playoff implications.
Odunze remains the Bears’ leading receiver, posting team highs in receptions (44), receiving yards (661), and touchdowns (6). He currently ranks as PFSN’s No. 37 wide receiver on the Impact metric.
While a Week 15 return seems unlikely, the Bears would undoubtedly love to have Odunze back for the final stretch of their playoff push.
