Chicago Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson made a bold and unexpected declaration that Rome Odunze and DJ Moore now the..
In a surprising and impassioned press conference that electrified the NFL world, newly appointed Chicago Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson made a statement that could redefine expectations for the 2025 season. Speaking with confidence and conviction, Johnson declared that rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze and veteran standout DJ Moore are now the top wide receiver duo in the National Football League
“I’ll say it clearly, and I’ll stand by it — Rome Odunze and DJ Moore are the best wide receiver tandem in the NFL right now,” Johnson told reporters at Halas Hall on Friday. “The chemistry, the talent, the mindset — it’s all there. This is a game-changing duo.”
This announcement arrives amid rising excitement surrounding the Bears’ offensive overhaul, led by No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams, a generational quarterback talent expected to be the franchise’s cornerstone. Johnson’s declaration underscores the confidence the Bears’ organization has in its newly-assembled receiving corps — and sets the tone for a bold new era in Chicago.
Odunze’s Immediate Impact
Rome Odunze, selected ninth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft out of the University of Washington, has been the talk of training camp. Known for his elite hands, precise route running, and mental toughness, Odunze was widely considered one of the most pro-ready receivers in the draft class. But few expected Johnson to elevate him to superstar status before his first official NFL snap.
“This kid is special,” Johnson said, eyes fixed with intensity. “He plays like he’s been in the league five years already. His work ethic is elite, his football IQ is elite, and his hunger to be great — that’s rare. Rome Odunze is not just ready. He’s built for this.”
Multiple reports from mini-camp practices have described Odunze’s connection with Williams as “instant and electric,” with the rookie duo already working on timing routes, back-shoulder fades, and option reads with a level of precision normally reserved for seasoned veterans.
DJ Moore: The Veteran Foundation
While Odunze’s arrival has captivated fans, Johnson made it clear that DJ Moore remains the heartbeat of the receiving room. Entering his seventh NFL season, Moore is coming off a career-best year in 2024, racking up over 1,400 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. His leadership, route polish, and ability to stretch the field have only grown stronger, Johnson noted.
“DJ’s the kind of player you build a culture around,” Johnson said. “He’s not just one of the best receivers in the league — he’s one of the best teammates, leaders, and professionals I’ve ever been around. And now, he’s got a running mate in Rome who elevates everything around him. They push each other. They sharpen each other. It’s dangerous — in the best way possible.”
New Offensive Philosophy
Ben Johnson, hailed as one of the NFL’s brightest offensive minds during his tenure as offensive coordinator in Detroit, has already begun installing a high-tempo, motion-heavy system designed to maximize space and capitalize on mismatches. With Odunze and Moore on the field, he now has the tools to create nightmares for defensive coordinators.
“You can’t double both of them,” Johnson explained. “You’ve got two guys who can line up anywhere — inside, outside, boundary, slot. They’re both physical, they’re both smart, and they both demand attention. Defenses will have to pick their poison. That’s how we want to play football in Chicago.”
League-Wide Reaction
While Johnson’s proclamation has drawn praise from Bears fans, it has also sparked debate across the league. Some analysts argue the title of “top WR duo” still belongs to other pairs — like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle in Miami, or Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins in Cincinnati. But Johnson doesn’t appear fazed by the scrutiny.
“We’re not here to win the offseason,” Johnson said. “We’re here to dominate Sundays. Come September, we’ll let the results speak for themselves.”
Final Word
Whether Johnson’s bold declaration proves prophetic remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: a new energy is coursing through the Windy City. With a visionary head coach, a franchise quarterback, and now, what may become the NFL’s most electrifying receiver tandem, the Chicago Bears are no longer a team rebuilding in the shadows — they’re stepping into the spotlight.
As Johnson walked off the podium, one reporter shouted: “What makes you so sure?”
He turned, grinned, and said, “Because I see them work every damn day. And I’ve never seen anything like it.”