Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze will be sidelined for the upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns after sustaining a setback with his foot injury during pregame warmups. Although Odunze was not initially included in the team’s list of inactive players for the match, the Bears later confirmed that he would not participate.
This decision comes after Odunze had been considered questionable to play following his absence in the previous week’s loss to the Green Bay Packers. Throughout the week leading up to the game, he was limited in practice due to ongoing foot and heel issues that have been bothering him since October.
Odunze’s recent struggles mark a significant moment in his young career; last week’s game against the Packers was the first he has ever missed. Initially, he appeared on Chicago’s injury report due to what was classified as a heel injury. During discussions, Odunze described the situation as “not a simple fix,” indicating that it was an injury that required careful management alongside the Bears’ training staff.
His absence will be felt significantly, as Odunze is currently the leading receiver for the Bears, recording 44 catches, 661 receiving yards, and six touchdowns this season. The team’s offensive strategy may need to adjust in his absence as they look to bounce back from their recent defeat. Coach and team officials will likely explore alternative formations and plays to compensate for the loss of their top wide receiver.
