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Bears Big Play Receiver Rankings Might Surprise You

Sep 28, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Kalif Raymond (14) celebrates with tight end Sam Roush (87) after scoring a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

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Bears Big Play Receiver Rankings Might Surprise You

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jobe Morrison | Last updated Oct 28, 2026 5:00 PM ET

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The Chicago Bears have several playmakers in their receiving corps, but which offensive players have been the most effective at generating big plays? Through seven weeks, NFL Pro’s expected points added (EPA) metrics offer an interesting look at which Bears pass catchers have made the biggest analytical impact. While traditional statistics such as receiving yards, receptions, and touchdowns tell part of the story, EPA provides another way to evaluate a player’s efficiency and overall contribution to the offense.

These rankings might surprise Bears fans, especially when considering which players have generated the most receiving EPA this season. EPA is not the be-all and end-all metric for evaluating a receiver’s big-play ability, but it can highlight players who have made the most of their opportunities.

From an unexpected name at the top of the list to the emergence of a promising young playmaker, let’s examine how Chicago’s offensive weapons stack up through seven weeks.

Kalif Raymond: +14.7 EPA

Raymond ranks third on the Bears in receiving yards, second in receptions, and fourth in routes run. His placement atop this list is an interesting development, but another advanced metric helps explain his impact: his ability to create separation.

Raymond leads Chicago’s receiving corps in separation yards per target at 5.0. That ability to get open helps explain why he has earned a spot in the team’s top-three receiver rotation.

Rome Odunze: +12.5 EPA

Oct 4, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (15) makes a catch against the New York Jets during the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

Odunze leads the Bears in routes run and ranks second in both receiving yards and yards per reception. Many expected him to emerge as Chicago’s leading receiver this season, and he has remained an effective target in the passing game.

Odunze made two massive receptions in the Bears’ Week 7 win over the New England Patriots. He will look to build on that performance and gain momentum as the season progresses.

Luther Burden III: +11.8 EPA

Oct 22, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (10) runs the ball againstNew England Patriots cornerback Charles Woods (22) during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn ImagesMatt Marton-Imagn Images

Burden has emerged as one of Chicago’s top offensive weapons. He can line up on the boundary or in the slot and create explosive plays for the Bears. He leads the team in receptions, receiving touchdowns, and receiving yards.

Burden also leads Chicago in yards after the catch with 251. His versatility and ability to generate additional yardage after securing the ball have made him an increasingly important part of the offense.

Cole Kmet: +5.8 EPA

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (85) makes a catch against Denver Broncos linebacker Drew Sanders (41) during the second half at Soldier Field.Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports

Losing Kmet for the season was heartbreaking for the Bears. The veteran tight end has been a reliable contributor over the years, and he remained efficient in 2026 before suffering his season-ending injury.

Now, Chicago must determine how to replace his production and find other ways to maintain its effectiveness at tight end.

Roschon Johnson: +4.7 EPA

Oct 18, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson (23) runs with the ball against the Atlanta Falcons during the game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Johnson received an expanded workload with Kyle Monangai sidelined by an injury. However, his contributions have extended beyond that opportunity, as he has been relatively efficient in limited work. Johnson has been particularly effective over the past two weeks.

As a receiver, Johnson has recorded eight receptions for 75 yards this season. Although that represents a small sample size, his positive EPA is an intriguing sign of his potential to contribute in the passing game.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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