For weeks now, there's been an immense amount of speculation surrounding Rome Odunze and his foot after his injury that sidelined him for weeks last season. But his just goes to show how the media can spin things out of proportion. Odunze's offhand comment was blown up, and suddenly we're all talking about what "new normal" really means for the Bears and if Odunze has what it takes to be the top receiver in Chicago.
I've been saying for this entire offseason that the Bears have been in desperate need for a veteran wide receiver to show these young guys really how it's done. DJ Moore served faithfully in that role last season, but his departure to Buffalo leaves the player-mentor spot open. Could Khalif Raymond really be the name that jumps out as the man with experience? He certainly has the time under Ben Johnson that could qualify him.
Khalif Raymond gives the Bears a veteran bridge to Ben Johnson’s offense
"He's been great to have, have, Leaf. He's been great for us, you know, as a veteran in the room, just with his insight, being in the Benz offense for many years over there in Detroit. So, from that side of things, but also just his receiver play, his details, his route running, his stride. I mean, you know, he's quick. He's quick. You guys seen it today, and get over the top of the defense. So, he's brought a very positive vibe to the room, very humorous as well, you know, and vibes are up in the room, and also the skill as well with when he's in there."Rome Odunze
Raymond spent four seasons with Ben Johnson as is offensive coordinator in Detroit. In the NFL, four seasons with the same coach is an eternity, and knowing the Ben Johnson system, it's certainly enough to learn and pass on.
The immense benefit that Raymond brings to the table without being a real offensive threat is great just for the effect he's had on the younger guys like Luther Burden and Zavion Thomas. Thomas is just entering the league to sit in the same receiver room as Raymond, whose been in the NFL since Thomas was in grade school.
Raymond may not make his biggest impact on the stat sheet, but that doesn't mean it won't be felt across the offense. If the Bears' young receivers follow his example, his experience could be every bit as valuable as his play on the field.
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