Bears rookie phenom surprisingly linked to role as primary punt returner

The Chicago Bears added explosive talent to their roster in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, and now Chicago could be on the verge of deploying that talent unexpectedly.

Chicago used the No. 9 pick in April's draft to select wide receiver Rome Odunze out of Washington. Odunze brings elite athleticism and big-play potential to the Bears, and he's expected to step into an important role right away as Chicago's third receiver.

Odunze may also be assigned one of the most vital tasks for the Bears' special teams unit, according to a report from Michael David Smith of NBC Sports.

Smith revealed on Thursday that Odunze is being strongly considered for the role of Chicago's primary punt returner.

"Bears special teams coordinator Richard Hightower referred to Odunze as a four-down player, noting that he barely returned punts in college but managed to pick up a Pac-12 Special-Teams Player of the Week award last season after a spectacular 83-yard touchdown," Smith said. "Asked if Odunze is the favorite to win the punt returner job in Chicago, Hightower wouldn’t answer but did say he’s a contender for the job."

Bears fans reacted excitedly to the possibility of Odunze returning punts while simultaneously wondering if it's worth the risk of injury to the stud rookie receiver.

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