The NFL remains a focal point when it comes to media scrutiny and the latest episode features Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze, and ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky. James Odunze, on Wednesday came out to defend his son, sharing a video that sparked a heated debate among Chicago Bears fans and media personalities alike.
The Bears and Caleb are gonna have to get comfortable giving Rome more “covered” opportunities
Rome isn’t getting open at this level right now—
Caleb will have to get comfortable throwing him some 50/50 balls
— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) September 18, 2024
Let me explain it; After Orlovsky shared an opinion piece on X about Rome struggling to get open in the NFL and remarking that Chicago Bears’ QB Caleb Williams needs to throw his receiver more 50/50 balls. The elder Odunze did not waste time to give Orlovsky a piece of his mind. Where he posted a video of Rome wide open in the end zone. The video received millions of views and reactions, going viral, and was compared to a similar situation with Odell Beckham Jr. and Baker Mayfield.
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🐻⬇️ https://t.co/YAo1HUCsJt pic.twitter.com/4Oq7jvZIXf
— JAMES ODUNZE (@JamesOdunze) September 19, 2024
James Odunze was quick to point out that his criticism was only directed at Orlovsky and not at Williams. “For clarification, this tweet was just about Dan Orlovsky’s nonsense statement,” he wrote. “It’s not about anything or anybody else. FULL STOP.”
For clarification, this tweet was just about Dan Orlovsky nonsense statement. It’s not about anything or anybody else. FULL STOP
— JAMES ODUNZE (@JamesOdunze) September 19, 2024
Will The Drama Continue For Chicago Bears’ Odunze
As expected, fans and the media are divided and waiting to see if it divides the locker room. Those agreeing with Orlovsky’s opinion, citing Rome’s slow start– just three catches for 44 yards in two games–while others think that the rookie wideout has not been given adequate chances. In either case, this external conflict is a lesson in how social media can create unneeded drama as well as add more pressure to young athletes who are still developing their skills.
There is almost no reason to look at Rome Odunze and Caleb Williams after only two games played. They need to develop as teammates and players. Perhaps, this drama dies down so that they can pay attention to the field instead of the hype that was created. For now, all that the Bears fans can do is hold their breath and cross their fingers for clearer waters ahead.
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