The Chicago Bears did what they were expected to do with their overall no. 1 pick in last month’s NFL draft– they picked USC blue-chip quarterback prospect, Caleb Williams.

That much was a no-brainer according to the experts and the analysts. Williams was considered THE man and a presence with the potential to turn a franchise around.Ezoic

What they did with their second first-round pick (overall no. 9), however, may have been a stroke of brilliance.

Chicago Bears’ Genius Draft Pick(s)
chicago bears 2024 nfl draft
Apr 26, 2024; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears first round draft choices Rome Odunze (left) and Caleb Williams (right) pose for photos at a press conference at Halas Hall. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
In drafting Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze, Chicago may have not only picked up an outstanding impact player but also someone who will make Williams an even greater asset to the future of the team. Despite some scattered negativity regarding the selection, the consensus is that this was an incredibly smart decision.

In Odunze, the Bears are getting one of the top pass catchers coming out of college– some have argued THE top pass catcher– and someone who can grow into Williams’ right-hand man on the field, after a one-year apprenticeship behind veteran wide receiver DJ Moore and Keenan Allen.

What Experts Are Saying
New York Giants Rome Odunze
Mar 1, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze (WO22) talks to the media during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Smart football people have taken notice and have been quick to point out Chicago’s savvy move. In a recent ESPN piece, several highly-regarded experts voiced their positive opinions on the drafting of Rome Odunze.

Per Matt Miller, NFL draft analyst:

“Let’s give the Bears credit for not overthinking and simply drafting great players. With a rookie quarterback added in Caleb Williams, selecting a go-to receiver for him to learn and grow with was brilliant. It also helps that the two trained together, building chemistry in the pre-draft process. Odunze was my No. 3 overall prospect, which means Chicago drafted two of my top three players in this class.”

Per Mike Tannenbaum, NFL front office insider:

“[Odunze] has a legitimate chance to be the best receiver from this draft. Under the motto of “win for today and develop for tomorrow,” the Bears have Allen on a one-year deal, and Odunze has Terrell Owens’ type of ability. This is ideal for Chicago.”

Per Field Yates, NFL draft analyst:Ezoic

“The wideout falling to No. 9 was not a complete surprise, given the anticipated run on quarterbacks early, but it was also not a sure thing. The sixth highest-rated player on my board could have been the first receiver taken in so many prior drafts, but the presence of Marvin Harrison Jr. and Nabers (the third- and fourth-rated players on my board) made him the third off the board in this class. But don’t be mistaken — Odunze will be an instant impact contributor as one the most polished prospects in the class.”

Per Seth Walder, sports analytics writer:

“Chicago walked away from the draft with an elite QB prospect who has a great chance to be an instant upgrade over Justin Fields, along with a top wide receiver in Odunze. A previously mediocre offense suddenly looks dangerous.”

Per Stephania Bell, fantasy football analyst:Ezoic

“The drafting of Caleb Williams alone is going to make its mark starting in Week 1. The Bears complemented the Williams pick with Rome Odunze, and the two already have chemistry, making their joint transition to the pro level that much easier. The rookies were set up for success with the team’s structuring of the rest of the offense this offseason, and the defense should ensure they stay on the field plenty.”

Of course, none of this is a guarantee that the selection of Odunze will pan out. There’s no guarantee that Caleb Williams, himself, will work out as the front office had hoped. But drafting the one-two tandem of Williams and Odunze is almost universally regarded as a smart move and one that will likely pay dividends for years to come.

Fans will find out soon enough whether smart draft choices result in on-field victories.