Posted on Jan 08

Bears WR Odunze returns from injury, poised for limited role vs. Packers in playoffs

Posted Jan 8, 2026

The Chicago Bears are set to welcome back wide receiver Rome Odunze as they prepare for their NFC wild-card matchup against the Green Bay Packers.

Why it matters: Odunze’s return could significantly impact the Bears' offensive strategy and provide a much-needed boost as they face a fierce rival.

The Bears have been without Odunze for five games due to a stress fracture in his foot, but he has now resumed full practice and will contribute in some capacity.
His ability to stretch the field and create mismatches can help open up opportunities for other skill players like DJ Moore and Jahdae Walker.

What’s new: Odunze has been declared healthy and will be available for selection, although his role may be limited.

Head coach Ben Johnson expressed confidence in Odunze's eagerness to play, stating, "I know he wants to be out there and helping... It's hard to tell him no sometimes."
Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle indicated that while Odunze's presence is a positive, he might not see the full workload typically expected of him.

Yes, but: Despite Odunze's readiness, the coaching staff remains cautious about his limitations post-injury.

Odunze himself acknowledged, “There might be some limitations, those are still to be discussed...” indicating that while he’s eager, management must ensure he’s not pushed too quickly back into action.
His last appearance was in Week 13 against the Eagles, where he recorded two catches for eight yards before his injury setback during warmups against the Browns.

What to watch: The dynamics of the Bears’ offense could change with Odunze's addition back into the lineup.

With other key players like Moore and Walker also healthy, the Bears can potentially deploy multiple receiving threats on the field simultaneously, challenging the Packers' defense.
Quarterback Justin Fields will benefit from an expanded target array, which could alleviate pressure and improve overall offensive production.

The bottom line: The Bears are looking to capitalize on Odunze's return as they enter the playoffs against a longstanding rival.

As Ben Johnson noted, Odunze’s desire to contribute aligns well with the team's playoff aspirations. The coming game will serve as a litmus test for how effectively he can reintegrate into the Bears’ offensive scheme while balancing his recovery from injury.

Bears WR Odunze returns from injury, poised for limited role vs. Packers in playoffs

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 8, 2026

The Chicago Bears are set to welcome back wide receiver Rome Odunze as they prepare for their NFC wild-card matchup against the Green Bay Packers.

Why it matters: Odunze’s return could significantly impact the Bears' offensive strategy and provide a much-needed boost as they face a fierce rival.

The Bears have been without Odunze for five games due to a stress fracture in his foot, but he has now resumed full practice and will contribute in some capacity.

His ability to stretch the field and create mismatches can help open up opportunities for other skill players like DJ Moore and Jahdae Walker.

What’s new: Odunze has been declared healthy and will be available for selection, although his role may be limited.

Head coach Ben Johnson expressed confidence in Odunze's eagerness to play, stating, "I know he wants to be out there and helping... It's hard to tell him no sometimes."

Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle indicated that while Odunze's presence is a positive, he might not see the full workload typically expected of him.

Yes, but: Despite Odunze's readiness, the coaching staff remains cautious about his limitations post-injury.

Odunze himself acknowledged, “There might be some limitations, those are still to be discussed...” indicating that while he’s eager, management must ensure he’s not pushed too quickly back into action.

His last appearance was in Week 13 against the Eagles, where he recorded two catches for eight yards before his injury setback during warmups against the Browns.

What to watch: The dynamics of the Bears’ offense could change with Odunze's addition back into the lineup.

With other key players like Moore and Walker also healthy, the Bears can potentially deploy multiple receiving threats on the field simultaneously, challenging the Packers' defense.

Quarterback Justin Fields will benefit from an expanded target array, which could alleviate pressure and improve overall offensive production.

The bottom line: The Bears are looking to capitalize on Odunze's return as they enter the playoffs against a longstanding rival.

As Ben Johnson noted, Odunze’s desire to contribute aligns well with the team's playoff aspirations. The coming game will serve as a litmus test for how effectively he can reintegrate into the Bears’ offensive scheme while balancing his recovery from injury.