Rome Odunze Injury Update: Is He Playing Tonight vs. Packers?

Rome Odunze will not play in Week 16 against the Green Bay Packers on Saturday, December 21. The Chicago Bears ruled the rookie wide receiver out due to a lingering foot injury.

The decision keeps Odunze sidelined for a third straight game as Chicago manages his recovery. His absence leaves the Bears without one of their primary passing weapons in a key NFC North matchup.

Rome Odunze Injury Update and Official Game Status

Rome Odunze was officially ruled out after failing to practice fully during the week. The Bears listed him as inactive for the Saturday night game at Soldier Field, confirming that the foot injury has not healed enough for game action.

Odunze last played in Week 13 and has been monitored closely since then. Team officials have not disclosed a firm timetable for his return, signaling a cautious approach rather than a short-term setback.

The rookie wideout began the 2025 season in strong form. He scored five touchdowns in his first four NFL games and quickly established chemistry with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.

Before the injury, Odunze’s production slowed but remained steady. Over his final three appearances, he caught seven passes while continuing to draw defensive attention on the outside.

Through Week 13, Odunze recorded 44 receptions on 90 targets. He totaled 661 receiving yards and six touchdowns, ranking among Chicago’s most productive offensive players.

According to reporting from Associated Press and NFL beat coverage, the Bears are prioritizing long-term health over a rushed return. With Odunze part of the team’s future core, medical staff has urged patience.

Chicago has not placed Odunze on injured reserve, leaving open the possibility of a late-season return. However, his availability will depend on how the foot responds to increased workload in practice.

For Week 16, the Bears will move forward without him. That forces adjustments across the receiving depth chart.

How the Bears Adjust Without Rome Odunze

With Odunze out, DJ Moore is expected to remain the focal point of the passing offense. Moore has consistently handled a high target share and will again draw top coverage from Green Bay.

Other receivers will see expanded roles in the rotation. Chicago has relied more heavily on short and intermediate routes to compensate for reduced vertical threats.

The absence of Odunze limits spacing on the field. His ability to stretch coverage and win contested catches has been difficult to replace.

For Caleb Williams, Odunze’s injury removes a trusted option on critical downs. The rookie quarterback has leaned on timing throws and quick reads in recent weeks.

Green Bay’s defense will likely adjust by focusing extra resources on Moore. That places pressure on Chicago’s secondary targets to win individual matchups.

Longer term, the Bears remain optimistic about Odunze’s outlook. The team views him as a cornerstone piece alongside Williams as part of a developing offensive nucleus.

Rome Odunze remains out for Week 16, and the Bears will again adjust their game plan without him as they face the Packers on December 21.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Rome Odunze playing tonight against the Packers?

No. Rome Odunze has been ruled out for Week 16 due to a foot injury and will not play on December 21.

Q2: Why is Rome Odunze not playing?

He is recovering from a foot injury that has sidelined him since Week 13. The Bears are taking a cautious medical approach.

Q3: When did Rome Odunze last play?

Odunze last appeared in a game during Week 13 of the 2025 NFL season.

Q4: Who replaces Rome Odunze in the Bears offense?

DJ Moore remains the primary target, with other receivers seeing increased snaps to fill the void.

Q5: Will Rome Odunze return this season?

The Bears have not ruled it out, but no return date has been announced. His status will depend on recovery progress.