Grading the Chicago Bears’ selection of Rome Odunze with the 9th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft

Despite speculation that the Chicago Bears would trade out of their second first-round pick (No. 9 overall), GM Ryan Poles opted to “stick and pick,” selecting wide receiver Rome Odunze.

Odunze now pairs with Caleb Williams to form an incredible pair of first-round picks who will inject a level of juice and excitement to an offense that hasn’t been seen in… forever.

Rome Odunze was drafted with pick 9 of round 1 in the 2024 draft class. He scored a 9.92 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 27 out of 3402 WR from 1987 to 2024. https://t.co/R8qQoSvB5o pic.twitter.com/fYYHQIyYYZ

— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) April 26, 2024

Rome Odunze had an incredible 2023 season, catching 92 passes for 1,640 yards and 13 touchdowns. Widely considered the most well-rounded receiver in the 2024 NFL Draft, Odunze will serve as the Chicago Bears’ third receiver behind DJ Moore and Keenan Allen.

Let’s get it, @RomeOdunze! pic.twitter.com/LDTJcrBCSR

— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) April 26, 2024

Few had Odunze sliding to No. 9 overall, he represents incredible value. If Rome Odunze was the only first-round pick for the Bears this year, it would be a home run. The fact he’s their second first-round pick after Caleb Williams? Just remarkable.

Grade: A