Chicago – The Chicago Bears entered the week with a cautiously optimistic outlook on two key players as the season opener approaches. Head coach Ben Johnson told reporters on Tuesday that rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze, who suffered a foot injury in practice last Thursday, is “more day‑to‑day right now” and the team hopes to see him on the field Sunday.
Odunze’s injury update
Odunze, the ninth‑overall pick in the 2024 draft, has been dealing with a lingering stress fracture in his foot that required careful management last season. The latest setback is a separate foot issue, but Johnson emphasized that the medical staff is monitoring his progress closely. “I don’t believe he’ll be out there today, but we’re hopeful he’ll be out there on Sunday,” Johnson said, indicating that the decision will be made after the final evaluation on game day.
When healthy, Odunze has shown the ability to stretch defenses. In 12 starts last season, he caught 44 passes for 661 yards and six touchdowns, despite playing through the earlier stress fracture. Over his first 29 career games, he has amassed 98 receptions, 1,395 yards and nine touchdowns, establishing himself as a promising deep‑threat option for the Bears’ passing attack.
Kyler Gordon’s calf situation
Cornerback Kyler Gordon, a 26‑year‑old who signed a three‑year, $40‑million extension before the 2025 season, is also on the injury list. Gordon suffered a calf strain during the preseason and is expected to sit out the opener. ESPN reports that he will work out away from the team to focus on his recovery, with the possibility of returning to practice later this month.
Gordon’s contributions have been limited by injuries in recent years. He appeared in just three games last season due to groin and calf issues. In his four NFL seasons, he has recorded 214 tackles, five interceptions and 17 passes defended in 45 games (35 starts). The Bears remain confident that once fully recovered, Gordon will return to his starting role in the secondary.
What the injuries mean for Chicago’s opening game
The Bears will open the season at home, and the health of both Odunze and Gordon will influence the team’s offensive and defensive game plans. With Odunze potentially back, quarterback Justin Fields will have an additional weapon to stretch the field, while the secondary will need to rely on other cornerbacks until Gordon is cleared.
Coach Johnson stressed that the team’s depth and preparation have positioned them to compete regardless of the final roster decisions. “We’ve got a lot of guys ready to step up,” he said. “Our focus is on executing our game plan and playing the right way.”
Looking ahead
The Bears will continue to evaluate both players throughout the week. Updates will be provided on game day, and fans can expect the team to announce the final active roster shortly before kickoff.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
