Posted on Dec 15

Bears may sideline WR Odunze for foot injury as Burden III deals with ankle issue

Posted Dec 15, 2025

The Chicago Bears are facing a potential dilemma with wide receiver Rome Odunze, who may be sidelined due to ongoing foot injuries that have hindered his performance.

Why it matters: Odunze is crucial to the Bears' offensive strategy, leading the team in receptions, yards, and touchdowns this season. His absence could significantly impact their ability to move the ball effectively.

With 44 catches for 661 yards and six touchdowns, Odunze has been a key component of the Bears' passing game.
The team must weigh the risks of playing him against the need for immediate contributions on the field.

What’s new: Head coach Ben Johnson confirmed that while Odunze was active for last week’s game against the Browns, he ultimately had to be ruled out shortly before kickoff due to an aggravation of his foot injury during warmups.

This marks another setback for Odunze, who also missed the previous two games.
Johnson emphasized the importance of prioritizing Odunze's long-term health over short-term gains.

Yes, but: Even if Odunze is sidelined, the Bears have shown resilience in their receiving corps, particularly with DJ Moore stepping up as a primary target.

In Chicago's recent victory over Cleveland, Moore tallied four receptions for 69 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his capability to lead despite other injuries.
Meanwhile, rookie Luther Burden III, who has emerged as another promising target, left the Browns game with an ankle injury, further complicating the situation.

What to watch: The Bears’ decision-making regarding Odunze will likely influence their overall offensive dynamics in the upcoming weeks.

Johnson indicated that all options remain on the table concerning Odunze's recovery, suggesting they might consider resting him to ensure he can contribute later in the season.
The development of Burden's ankle injury will also be critical, as the team evaluates its depth at the wide receiver position.

The bottom line: The Bears face a challenging crossroads with Odunze’s health affecting both their immediate game plan and long-term aspirations.

Balancing the urgency to win now with the necessity of protecting an invaluable asset like Odunze will require careful consideration from the coaching staff.
As the team navigates these injuries, maintaining effective communication and strategic planning will be paramount to their success in the coming games.

Bears may sideline WR Odunze for foot injury as Burden III deals with ankle issue

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 15, 2025

The Chicago Bears are facing a potential dilemma with wide receiver Rome Odunze, who may be sidelined due to ongoing foot injuries that have hindered his performance.

With 44 catches for 661 yards and six touchdowns, Odunze has been a key component of the Bears' passing game.

The team must weigh the risks of playing him against the need for immediate contributions on the field.

This marks another setback for Odunze, who also missed the previous two games.

Johnson emphasized the importance of prioritizing Odunze's long-term health over short-term gains.

Yes, but: Even if Odunze is sidelined, the Bears have shown resilience in their receiving corps, particularly with DJ Moore stepping up as a primary target.

In Chicago's recent victory over Cleveland, Moore tallied four receptions for 69 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his capability to lead despite other injuries.

Meanwhile, rookie Luther Burden III, who has emerged as another promising target, left the Browns game with an ankle injury, further complicating the situation.

What to watch: The Bears’ decision-making regarding Odunze will likely influence their overall offensive dynamics in the upcoming weeks.

Johnson indicated that all options remain on the table concerning Odunze's recovery, suggesting they might consider resting him to ensure he can contribute later in the season.

The development of Burden's ankle injury will also be critical, as the team evaluates its depth at the wide receiver position.

The bottom line: The Bears face a challenging crossroads with Odunze’s health affecting both their immediate game plan and long-term aspirations.

Balancing the urgency to win now with the necessity of protecting an invaluable asset like Odunze will require careful consideration from the coaching staff.

As the team navigates these injuries, maintaining effective communication and strategic planning will be paramount to their success in the coming games.