
Chicago Bears Takeaway No. 2: The Bears get their prototypical X receiver
A common philosophy in the NFL is the need for a big X receiver your quarterback can lob the ball to when all else fails. In DJ's Mock Draft 2.0, the Chicago Bears get that in Rome Odunze at pick No. 9.
In the modern NFL, the need for a true X receiver who's 6-foot-4 or taller is less of a need and more of a luxury. Among the top 20 receivers in the game determined by receiving yards, only four were 6-foot-4 or taller: Nico Collins (6'4"); Mike Evans (6'5"); Michael Pittman Jr. (6'4"); D.K. Metcalf (6'4").
The new desired receiver is one who stands 6'0" tall, who weighs around 200 pounds and runs incredible routes.
Rome Odunze, however, is one of the top receivers in this draft for a reason, and it's for reasons much more important than his height.
May the Hero in you PREVAIL pic.twitter.com/5gbpdUuCc9
— Rome Odunze (@RomeOdunze) March 10, 2023
Regardless of who the Chicago Bears have at quarterback next season, Rome Odunze will be an incredible target for them to find success with. Odunze pairs well with D.J. Moore, and drafting Odunze allows Moore to line up in the slot more. With what D.J. Moore can do with the ball in his hands, having him become a true slot receiver — paired with a deep threat in Rome Odunze — could be really scary for opposing defensive coordinators.
Not only as a deep threat, but Odunze makes a quarterback's job easy by being successful frequently on contested catches. He plays the game with a confidence that makes an already strong receiver even stronger.
If the Bears are ready to pick at No. 9 and Rome Odunze is available, they better sprint to the podium.