In a concerning development for the Chicago Bears, wide receiver Rome Odunze and running back D'Andre Swift both sustained injuries during a practice session on Wednesday, September 3. Reports indicate that Odunze's injury occurred early in the practice, specifically during the "install" session, as noted by Sean Hammond of the Chicago Tribune. The young receiver was seen limping and subsequently received attention from a trainer before leaving the field and not returning.
Although Odunze reportedly expressed that he "wasn't overly concerned" about the injury, the fact that he did not finish practice raises questions about his availability for upcoming games. The Bears have not provided an official update on his condition, and head coach Ben Johnson is not expected to address the media until next week. The team's official injury report will be released on Wednesday, September 9, which will give more clarity on Odunze's situation.
Meanwhile, D'Andre Swift's injury appeared to be more severe. According to Hammond, Swift was seen holding his midsection or core area late in practice, indicating he was in "significant discomfort." He left the field for medical treatment, retreating to a nearby shed, which suggests that his injury could potentially impact his playing status as well.
In the event that Odunze is sidelined, Luther Burden III is poised to step up into the No. 1 receiver role for the Bears. Chicago's wide receiver depth chart currently lists Odunze at the top, followed by Burden, Kalif Raymond, Zavion Thomas, and Jahdae Walker. With only five receivers on the 53-man roster, the Bears may need to call up a player from their practice squad if Odunze's injury keeps him out of action.
Should Swift be unable to play, Kyle Monangai would likely take over as the lead running back. Monangai had a productive rookie season, accumulating 783 yards and five touchdowns on 169 carries. However, he is also dealing with a hyperextended right knee, which adds another layer of uncertainty to the Bears' backfield situation. The Bears' running back depth chart features Swift at the top, followed by Monangai and Roschon Johnson, who has also shown promise in his career with 832 yards and eight touchdowns across three NFL seasons.
The Bears are facing a critical juncture in their preparations for the regular season, especially with the potential absence of both Odunze and Swift. Chicago may need to elevate players from their practice squad, including Kaden Davis, Scotty Miller, or JP Richardson, to bolster their receiving corps. Similarly, they could look to add depth in the running back position by promoting either Salvon Ahmed or Zavier Scott if Swift's injury proves to be serious.
As the Bears navigate these injury concerns, the team will be hoping for positive updates on both Odunze and Swift to ensure they can field a competitive roster as the regular season approaches.
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