Odunze sustains apparent leg injury in Bears practice

The Chicago Bears view Rome Odunze as a central figure in their offense, with coach Ben Johnson praising his consistency and willingness to block and do the little things to help the team win. Odunze is expected to be a primary option in the passing game, but the Bears also plan to spread targets among Luther Burden III, Colston Loveland, and rookie Zavion Thomas to keep everyone involved. While Odunze has dealt with a foot injury last season, coaches have said this summer that his foot is healthy and there have been no setbacks. Reports note a separate right-leg issue during a practice, and both Odunze and Burden were not at full health, prompting updates to the depth chart ahead of the season. Odunze’s prior stress fracture limited him late last season, but he returned for the postseason, giving the Bears hope that injury concerns are in the rearview as they prepare for 2026. Chicago’s season opener is set for September 13 against the Carolina Panthers, with Odunze and the receiving corps expected to be a focal point."