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By Matthew Couden
Contributing Writer
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The Chicago Bears are looking to continue momentum against the Cleveland Browns with a frigid battle at Soldier Field on Sunday, and it appeared they'd have one of Caleb Williams' favorite receivers on the field.
However, the status of star wide receiver Rome Odunze became a significant question mark heading into the matchup. He initially appeared good to go, as reports an hour before the game indicated he would suit up and be on the field.
The news turned bad for the Bears, though, as an update arrived suggesting Odunze would not go due to a pregame injury. Based on the report, he aggravated his foot injury during the team's warmups and was ruled out for the game.
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Odunze has proven to be one of Caleb Williams' top targets during the season. His 2025 stats thus far include 661 yards and six receiving touchdowns on 44 catches. His touchdown mark ties him for No. 11 in the league, and his 15 average yards per reception puts him at No. 12.
The star receiver sat out last weekend's loss to the Green Bay Packers due to a stress fracture in his foot. Chicago nearly achieved a late-game tie, but Williams' attempted endzone pass was picked off, securing a 28-21 win for the Packers.
For Chicago, it's the second-straight week a player has suffered a pregame injury. Per ESPN, the same situation happened last week with Kyler Gordon, who had a groin injury during warmups.
Williams still has other options, including DJ Moore, Cole Kmet, and Colston Loveland. In addition, they're expected to rely heavily on their ground game, which has proven effective throughout the season.
The Bears bring a 9-4 record into Sunday’s game, and according to their coach, Ben Johnson, they will need to add two more wins before the season closes to have a shot at the playoffs. Whether or not that starts with the Cleveland Browns remains to be seen, as they face a Myles Garrett-led defense and rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders in another start.
Read more: Micah Parsons Sends Bold Message to Broncos Ahead of Packers Clash
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