The Chicago Bears selected wide receiver Rome Odunze with the 9th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, a move widely praised at the time as a steal and excellent value. Odunze’s rookie season has been somewhat inconsistent, but considering the turmoil surrounding the Bears’ offense, his performance has been impressive. He has recorded 52 receptions for 716 yards and 3 touchdowns—a solid rookie campaign.
However, this pick has recently faced scrutiny. Quarterback Caleb Williams has been sacked a league-high 67 times, with one game remaining in the season, highlighting the Bears struggling offensive line. General Manager Ryan Poles is under intense scrutiny due to the line’s poor performance. Adding to the criticism is a resurfaced clip from the day after the draft where Poles was asked about the Atlanta Falcons selecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the 8th pick. Poles laughed in response, a moment that has now drawn attention amid the Bears current struggles.
Bears GM Ryan Poles laughed when asked about the Falcons drafting Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8 pic.twitter.com/7JGIYim358
— Dave (@dave_bfr) April 26, 2024
Michael Penix Jr. hasn’t had much opportunity to play, with only one start so far this season. Kirk Cousins started most of the year but was benched last week. The criticism surrounding Ryan Poles isn’t necessarily about selecting Rome Odunze at No. 9—most agree that was a solid pick that many would make again.
Instead, the scrutiny stems from Poles perceived arrogance and the fact that he’s currently on the hot seat. His job for next season is uncertain, and every decision he’s made is now under the public microscope. This criticism may not be entirely fair, but it’s a natural consequence when things start to unravel like they have in. It will be fascinating to see how Chicago approaches their GM situation this offseason, as they face a crucial personnel decision and one that will have long lasting implications.
