Sports News Report
League: NFLSport: FootballCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Steve Smith Sr. sees breakout potential for Bears' WRs Odunze and Burden

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 26, 2026, 3:16 AM

Last updated Jul 26, 2026

Steve Smith Sr. sees breakout potential for Bears' WRs Odunze and Burden
Summary

Steve Smith Sr. expressed confidence in the Chicago Bears' wide receiver group, highlighting Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III as key players for a successful 2026 season. Despite trading DJ Moore, optimism remains as both receivers are expected to improve under head coach Ben Johnson's offensive scheme. Odunze, 24, is entering his third NFL season, while 22-year-old Burden had an impressive rookie year. Smith emphasized the youth and talent of the group, suggesting they can develop into one of the top receiving corps in the NFL. Continued development with quarterback Caleb Williams will be crucial for maximizing their potential.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •Odunze and Burden viewed as breakout candidates for 2026.
  • •Bears traded DJ Moore but maintain receiver depth.
  • •Odunze caught 44 passes for 661 yards last season.
  • •Burden led rookies with 2.88 yards per route run.
  • •Steve Smith Jr. endorses their potential under Johnson.
Latest Updates
  • 3:16 AMYahoo Sports — Ex-Pro Bowler Thinks Bears' WR Room Can Be One of the Best in the NFL
What they're saying
"

Steve Smith Sr. believes Bears receivers Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III are primed for a breakout season in 2026 under head coach Ben Johnson.

Related Teams & Leagues
Chicago BearsNFLFootball

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days