Who is Rome Odunze? Meet the Dairy-Farming, Big-Play Bears Wide Receiver

Who is Rome Odunze? Meet the Dairy-Farming, Big-Play Bears Wide Receiver

Published Jul. 14, 2025 12:40 p.m. ET

Eric Williams, NFL Reporter

When Rome Odunze was digging ditches on a dairy farm in Utah as a kid, who would have thought he’d grow up to play in a national championship game and become a first-round pick in the NFL Draft? One of seven receivers chosen in the first round last year, Odunze wrapped up his rookie season with 54 receptions for 734 yards and three touchdowns while teaming up with fellow rookie Caleb Williams. Even though the Chicago Bears finished with a 5-12 record and head coach Matt Eberflus was let go midseason, Odunze aims to leverage 2024 as a springboard for a breakout second year. Fantasy players, take note!

During the NFL’s recent Player Personal Branding and Social Workshop in Los Angeles, I caught up with the 23-year-old receiver. We talked about everything, from Odunze’s days on the dairy farm to his impactful college career at Washington, from learning Ben Johnson’s offensive system to embracing his Nigerian heritage.

Unique Background

You have a unique background, spending summers on your maternal grandparents’ dairy farm in Utah, along with your father being the son of Nigerian immigrants. How did that shape who you are?

Rome Odunze: Growing up around hard-working immigrants and farmers instilled in me a strong work ethic and a broader worldview compared to someone raised solely in America. Working on the farm was a remarkable experience that taught me about perseverance and the often thankless nature of hard work. As a football player, you need that mindset because you have to focus on doing your job, no matter the circumstances. My Nigerian heritage has broadened my understanding of purpose, family, and legacy, all of which have significantly contributed to my development.

Farm Life Challenges

What was the hardest job you did on the farm?

Odunze: The toughest job was digging ditches for fence posts and water channels in the intense heat of the Utah desert. It was brutal, and I definitely experienced heatstroke during that time. That was wild!

First NFL Season

What was your takeaway from your first season in Chicago, and how are you approaching this offseason based on your performance?

Odunze: I see it as a foundational season. There’s a significant transition from college to the NFL regarding responsibilities on and off the field. Navigating the pressures of a rookie season while trying to contribute to an organization was a unique experience from which I learned a lot. Heading into Year 2, I’m focused on improving every aspect of my game—be it my performance as a wide receiver, studying film, engaging with teammates, or enhancing my leadership. I now have a clearer understanding of the NFL environment and space.

Chemistry with Teammates

What was it like playing with Caleb Williams, and how can you improve your chemistry in Year 2?

Odunze: It was fantastic! We’ve already had moments that show our chemistry, and I hope we can build on that for the next decade, becoming a legendary duo. Both of us are focusing on being the best we can be at our respective positions, which has been a significant step forward. New coaches like Ben Johnson are encouraging us, pushing us to meet our potential, which is exactly what we need.

Learning a New Offense

Now that Ben Johnson is part of the coaching staff, what has it been like learning this new offense, and how do you envision your role within it 771pub com register?

Odunze: The process has been challenging, but I see that as a positive sign. From the get-go, the focus has been on details, and there are strict requirements within the offense. Everything counts, down to every yard on the field, whether it’s alignment, assignment, technique, or execution. 337+jili+casino It’s a game of inches, and understanding that has accelerated our learning process. We’re gearing up for training camp and the season, but so far, it’s been a great experience.

Memorable College Experience

What was it like playing in that high-octane offense at Washington and competing in the title game with Michael Penix Jr. and the talented receiving corps?

Odunze: It was a historic season for us, and I feel honored to have been part of such a talented group. I have immense respect for Penix; he’s phenomenal and one of the best players I’ve played with. I’m excited to see him step into his new role as the solidified QB1 this upcoming season. Watching his progress and how he started to shine last season gives me confidence that he’ll excel in this offense r88. 54jili

My fellow receivers are also doing great. Ja’Lynn Polk is thriving with the Patriots, benefitting from having Stefon Diggs as a mentor. Likewise, J-Mac [Jalen McMillan] in Tampa has gained invaluable experience under Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. They’ve both had stellar performances, and I have no doubt they will continue to shine.

Offseason Training

Where did you work out this offseason?

Odunze: I train in Orange County at a facility owned by my agency, Excel Sports. It’s a great way to unwind and recover while keeping up with my lifting and conditioning.

Working with T.J bmw crossover. Houshmandzadeh

You also work with T.J. Houshmandzadeh during the offseason. What’s it like collaborating with him?

Odunze: It’s been fantastic! T.J. is an excellent coach. I often send him clips of my routes because I believe he’s one of the greatest to play the game. He provides valuable insights that help me refine my skills.

Taking Advantage of Your Platform

You had several questions for speakers at the NFL branding symposium. What do you hope to achieve as an athlete looking to leverage your platform? What have you learned so far?

Odunze: I’ve gained a lot of knowledge. There are numerous avenues to explore, whether through personal expression or engaging content on social media. I’m trying to find out how I want to navigate this space. Although I don’t usually use social media, I recognize it as a powerful platform for expressing my voice, whether it’s regarding lifestyle, interests, or content creation. I see it as a valuable tool, and I intend to leverage it effectively.

Eric D. Williams has covered the NFL for over a decade, previously writing about the Los Angeles Rams for Sports Illustrated and the Los Angeles Chargers for ESPN. Follow him on X at @eric_d_williams.

What do you think of Rome Odunze’s journey and his potential in the upcoming season?