The Chicago Bears were enjoying a breakout season from second-year receiver Rome Odunze before a stress fracture in the pass catcher's foot ended the impressive run. While Odunze has still played in the playoffs, it has been clear that the same ability isn't there, with only 106 yards over his last four games. Heading into the divisional round, this continued to be a story with Underdog NFL reporting that Odunze was listed as questionable for Sunday's game. A later report clarified that Odunze is expected to play, but expectations should remain low for the limited playmaker.
It isn't a slight, but the reality of a receiver dealing with a serious foot injury. Attempting to gut it out is admirable and speaks to the toughness of Odunze and his desire to win. Still, it does create a clear void and an opportunity for rookie Luther Burden to deliver. There is no doubting the talent of DJ Moore or the consistent impact of rookie tight end Colston Loveland. However, if the Bears are going to pull off an upset against the playoff-tested Los Angeles Rams, it will require a big game from Burden.
Burden has the opportunity to step into a meaningful role that the rookie hasn't proven he can fill for the entire season. While there have been flashes, Burden finished the season with 652 receiving yards and a pair of touchdowns. Still, there have been flashes of his ability to make game-changing plays, and that is the skillset the Bears need to help replace the injured Odunze.
Bears Rookie WR Luther Burden Given Opportunity to Serve Surprise Role
Burden finished his first playoff game with three catches for 42 yards, with the longest catch being an impactful 25-yard play. Still, this isn't the level that Chicago needs Burden to deliver with the current limits on Odunze. Burden needs to accumulate 70-80 yards of offense and force the Rams to play the deep ball so that the rushing attack has more room to work.
This is vital against a Los Angeles defense that has an incredibly talented defensive line and a myriad of pieces who are as battle-tested as any group remaining in the playoffs. Being able to rely on Burden will unlock the rest of the offense and give Chicago a great chance of playing in the NFC Championship.
While they would need some help to make it happen, there is a scenario where a Bears win and a Seattle Seahawks loss would make Soldier Field the setting of the NFC Championship. No question, Burden understands the gravity of the moment and the pressure to give the Bears a chance to defy expectations and continue their improbable 2025 run. One that could provide the rookie the ability to not only contribute at a high level, but to prove himself capable of holding a bigger role heading into next season.