Chicago Bears starting wide receiver Rome Odunze seems to have bought in completely to the hiring of Ben Johnson as the team's new head coach.
Last week, the Bears triumphantly introduced Johnson as their new coach in front of a packed crowd at PNC Center in Halas Hall. Several key offensive players sat in the front row, including Odunze and quarterback Caleb Williams.
Now, Odunze has finally aired his thoughts about the arrival of Johnson.
Odunze spoke about Johnson's hiring for the first time on Tuesday during his guest appearance on Bleacher Report's "Cleats & Convos" podcast and was all smiles discussing his new coach with San Francisco 49ers star Deebo Samuel.
"I think Ben is a tremendous coach, a tremendous play-caller, certified," Odunze said. "I got to meet him at the presser and got to see his responses to some of the reporters' questions and how he commanded the room and how he seems very driven, very motivated."
Odunze had a solid rookie season for the Bears in 2024, catching 54 passes for 734 yards and three touchdowns, but his production suffered from a mixture of rookie mistakes — both on his and Williams' part — and the unmitigated chaos that ensued as a result of coaching shakeups throughout the year.
Naturally, expectations are higher for Odunze in 2025 heading into his first full NFL offseason with the Bears, especially now that they have hired Johnson.
Johnson will now take over the offensive play-calling duties for the Bears after thriving in that role for three years as the Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator.
Johnson has also brought with him a few other offensive coaches who could have a bearing on Odunze's development, including 28-year-old offensive coordinator Declan Doyle and passing game coordinator Press Taylor.
While Johnson has still not named his wide receivers coach for the 2025 season, the new energy in the building has Odunze ready for his second campaign.
"We've got a bunch of new additions, a bunch of new coaches flowing in, so I'm excited," Odunze said.
