Despite a recent foot injury, Rome Odunze is trending positively, offering hope for a crucial playoff return and a boost to the Bears' offense.
The Chicago Bears have gone 2-1 in their last three games without Rome Odunze in the lineup.
Odunze has been dealing with a stress fracture in his foot that got aggravated before the Green Bay Packers game in Week 14. He was ruled out for that game, but was listed as questionable for the Cleveland Browns matchup.
It was even reported that Odunze would be cleared, but he then suffered a setback during pregame warmups and didn't play.
He was ruled out for Saturday night's game with the Packers, and his status for Week 17 is uncertain.
When healthy, Odunze has been a solid receiving option for Caleb Williams. He is second on the team with 661 receiving yards and six touchdowns.
Head coach Ben Johnson was asked at Tuesday's press conference about Odunze's recovery. The head coach noted that Odunze is focusing on rehabbing the injury and is trending in the right direction.
"We've been working through his rehab process," Johnson said. "He's right on track. He's going to be in a good spot."
A reporter asked Johnson to explain further what he meant about Odunze being a good spot. Johnson was confident that the receiver would still be able to contribute to the team this season.
"He's going to be able to help us this year." Johnson said.
This should get Bears fans everywhere fired up about the possibility of him playing towards the end of the regular season, and more importantly, in the playoffs. Chicago is also hoping to get Kyler Gordon (groin) back for its playoff run.
Gordon recently came back from the injured reserve with a calf injury, but suffered a groin injury during pregame warmups in Week 14 and went back. Johnson didn't rule out the possibility of Gordon returning for the playoffs.
The nickel corner recently signed a three-year, $40 million extension with the franchise, but has only played in three games.
The Bears clinched a playoff spot after the Detroit Lions lost 29-24 to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Chicago can still win the NFC North and also has a shot at claiming the No. 1 seed in the NFC. All Chicago has to do is win out and needs the Seattle Seahawks to lose one of their final two games.
Chicago's next test is the San Francisco 49ers in Week 17. Hopefully, there will be some positive updates on Odunze before the matchup. Kickoff is set for 7:20 p.m. CT on NBC and Peacock.