The Chicago Bears’ potent offensive weapon is selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Mock Draft.

The buzz around the Chicago Bears entering the 2025 NFL Draft is unlike anything the franchise has experienced in decades. Armed with multiple first-round picks and a new era on the horizon, the Bears are being viewed not just as a rebuilding team, but as a legitimate threat to disrupt the NFC hierarchy. While all eyes have been on their quarterback situation — notably the selection of USC star Caleb Williams — another narrative is starting to take shape in the latest mock drafts: the Bears’ most potent offensive weapon may be flying off the board in the first round as well.

With the release of the most recent 2025 NFL Mock Drafts from top analysts at ESPN, CBS Sports, and The Athletic, a trend has emerged: wide receiver Rome Odunze, arguably Chicago’s most explosive offensive asset, is projected to be selected in the first round — by a team not named the Bears.

That projection has triggered a flood of debate, discussion, and speculation. Why would Chicago part with such a dynamic talent? What does it mean for the Bears’ offensive future? And who stands to benefit from the acquisition of Odunze?

Let’s unpack what it all means.

Odunze’s Emergence: A Breakout Star in the Windy City

When the Bears selected Rome Odunze with a top-10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the expectation was that he would serve as a complementary piece to newly acquired No. 1 receiver DJ Moore. However, Odunze quickly shattered that notion with a rookie campaign that forced the league to take notice.

In just his first NFL season, Odunze tallied over 1,200 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns, carving up defenses with his elite combination of size, route running, and deceptive speed. He thrived on deep routes, made difficult catches look routine, and provided the Bears with a true WR1-in-waiting.

More impressively, Odunze quickly became the favorite target of both Caleb Williams and veteran backup quarterback Tyson Bagent, depending on who was under center. His ability to adjust mid-route and work through coverages made him invaluable in key moments — especially in the red zone and on third down.

By the end of the 2024 season, Odunze wasn’t just a promising rookie. He was the focal point of the Bears’ offensive future.

The Mock Draft Shock: Why Odunze is Suddenly Available

So how could a player like Odunze — a cornerstone piece — be projected to go in the first round of the 2025 draft?

Here’s where things get interesting.

The 2025 mock drafts circulating online aren’t just about new college prospects. Some include projections of potential trades, surprising player movement, and dramatic scenarios that could reshape franchises. In several prominent mock drafts, Odunze is being traded ahead of the draft as part of a massive move by Chicago to climb even higher in the first round or to acquire another elite talent on defense.

In one hypothetical scenario published by ESPN’s Jordan Reid, the Bears trade Odunze and a future second-round pick to the New York Giants for the No. 7 overall selection. The Bears then select All-American edge rusher JT Tuimoloau out of Ohio State, giving head coach Matt Eberflus the defensive disruptor he’s long coveted.

Another mock from The Athletic suggests a blockbuster three-team trade where Odunze lands with the Baltimore Ravens, and the Bears receive both draft capital and a young starting-caliber cornerback to pair with Jaylon Johnson.

While none of these are certainties, the idea that Odunze could be dealt isn’t just draft-day clickbait. There are whispers — unconfirmed but persistent — that Chicago’s front office is exploring multiple paths to balance the offense and defense, especially given the depth of the 2025 WR class and the presence of Moore and newly signed veteran Darnell Mooney.

Why the League Covets Odunze

The fact that Odunze is even part of these mock scenarios speaks volumes about his perceived value around the league. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 215 pounds, he combines the body control of DeAndre Hopkins with the route sharpness of Keenan Allen.

Odunze’s ability to stretch the field vertically while also being reliable underneath makes him scheme-proof. He’s a receiver who can thrive in a pass-heavy offense or a run-first scheme. More importantly, he’s already shown he can produce against top corners and under the bright lights.

It’s no wonder teams like the Ravens, Giants, and Patriots have been linked to him in various hypothetical deals. In many cases, franchises see Odunze as a safer bet than taking a rookie receiver from the draft — even in a talented class led by players like Emeka Egbuka and Evan Stewart.

What This Means for the Bears’ Future

Should the Bears actually trade Rome Odunze, it would be a risky but calculated move. It signals confidence in two key areas:

1. Caleb Williams as a distributor: By trading a WR1-type talent like Odunze, the Bears would be placing full trust in Williams’ ability to elevate whoever is on the field — whether it’s Moore, Mooney, Cole Kmet, or a rookie receiver.
2. Roster depth and flexibility: Chicago would be banking on depth at receiver and the ability to draft or sign another impactful pass-catcher while using the Odunze trade to strengthen another position group.

There’s also the financial angle. Odunze’s rookie contract is cost-effective for now, but if he continues to produce like a Pro Bowler, the Bears would face a massive extension negotiation in a couple of years. Trading him early could be seen as preemptively managing the cap.

Where Could Odunze Land? Potential Fits

Let’s take a look at three teams that have shown up frequently in mock trades for Odunze and why the fit makes sense:

1. Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens have long needed a true X-receiver to complement Lamar Jackson’s play style. Odunze would be a physical, reliable target who can also help stretch the field — something Baltimore has lacked since the peak of Anquan Boldin. Pairing Odunze with Zay Flowers would instantly elevate the Ravens’ aerial attack.

2. New York Giants

With Daniel Jones under pressure to prove he’s the long-term answer (or pave the way for a rookie QB), the Giants need a weapon. Odunze’s physical tools and catch radius would help immediately. If the Giants also draft a quarterback, Odunze provides a high-end security blanket from Day 1.

3. New England Patriots

The Patriots are desperate for playmakers. With a new quarterback likely coming through the 2025 Draft, giving them a receiver like Odunze could accelerate the development process. Bill Belichick may be gone, but the team’s struggles at WR continue — Odunze would solve that.

Fan Reaction: Mixed Emotions in Chicago

As expected, Bears fans have voiced strong opinions on the idea of moving Odunze. On social media, reactions range from outrage to intrigue. Many point to the history of Chicago struggling to develop star wideouts and fear that trading away one of the best in years would be a mistake.

Others, however, see the bigger picture: if the Bears can get multiple premium assets in return and still build around Williams and Moore, the net gain could be worth it.

Still, Odunze’s jersey sales are among the highest for any Bears player, and he’s become a fan favorite not just for his on-field play, but for his presence in the community and locker room.

 Bold Moves Define Championship Windows

If the Chicago Bears do indeed trade Rome Odunze before or during the 2025 NFL Draft, it will mark a bold pivot in their rebuilding journey. While the move would be controversial, it could ultimately reflect the kind of calculated risk that turns contenders into champions.

Whether Odunze stays or becomes the headliner of a draft day blockbuster, one thing is clear: he is a rare talent, and his impact on the league is only just beginning. For Bears fans, the next few weeks could provide clarity on the direction of the franchise — and on whether their brightest young star will continue catching passes in the Windy City.

Whatever happens, the name Rome Odunze is one you’ll be hearing a lot more of — whether it’s on Sundays at Soldier Field or lighting up defenses in a different NFL uniform.