Odunze Distances Himself From His Father’s Bears Comments

Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze addressed recent social media posts made by his father, James Odunze, who criticized the team’s offensive strategy and lack of targets for his son. Rome, however, made clear on Thursday that those opinions are his father’s alone.

“I don’t make a big deal out of it,” Odunze said. “Obviously, he has his opinions, and I have mine. And he feels like he needs to voice those things on social media. That’s his prerogative. But he speaks for himself. I speak for myself.”

Father’s Posts Stir Controversy

After Chicago’s 47–44 win over the Cincinnati Bengals — a game in which Odunze did not record a catch — James Odunze took to social media to question the team’s usage of his son. He reposted one fan’s message suggesting the Bears should “trade Rome Odunze to a team that will actually throw to him” and shared another calling for at least 10 targets per game.

James has been vocal online throughout the season, often sharing or supporting posts criticizing the Bears’ offensive approach. However, his son says the social media activity hasn’t created any tension between them. “Yeah, we’ve talked about it,” Rome acknowledged. “What do I say? I’ll keep that private.”

Odunze Leads Bears’ Receiving Corps

Despite his father’s frustration, Odunze remains the focal point of Chicago’s passing attack. The second-year receiver leads the team in every major category with 59 targets, 31 receptions, 473 yards, and five touchdowns. His steady production has helped the Bears climb to 5–3 and stay in the NFC North race.

“Oh, man. I’m happy,” Odunze said. “I’m just trying to do my job within this organization — as a leader, as a person, and as a football player. Trying to excel at a Hall of Fame level in those aspects. That’s all I’m focused on.”

Focus on Team Success

Odunze returned to practice Thursday after missing time with heel and ankle injuries and said he’s unfazed by outside noise. The Bears’ social media team even highlighted his contributions as a blocker in the Bengals win, posting a two-minute video showcasing his effort in the run game.

“That was cool. I appreciate them doing that,” Odunze said. “Blocking is an underappreciated aspect of wide receiver play that I feel like I excelled at in that game. Just looking to build on that.”

As Chicago prepares to face the New York Giants at Soldier Field on Sunday, Odunze made clear that while his father’s voice may be loud on social media, his own focus remains steady on helping the Bears win.