NEWS: Rome Odunze Hosts Youth Football Campat Boylan High School, Inspires Next Generation
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze returned to his roots of community involvement by hosting a youth football camp at Boylan High School in Rockford, Illinois, on Saturday. The event attracted dozens of young athletes eager to learn from the Bears’ first-round draft pick, who is already making waves before even playing his first NFL snap.
The camp, which was free for participants, focused on skill development, teamwork, and leadership — principles that Odunze has embraced throughout his career. Boys and girls aged 8 to 14 took part in various drills that included route running, catching techniques, defensive coverage skills, and agility exercises. More than just a training session, the camp also featured motivational talks and Q&A sessions, where kids got the rare chance to hear firsthand about Odunze’s journey to the NFL.
“Football has given me so much — structure, discipline, opportunity,” Odunze said. “So it’s important for me to give back and show these kids that their dreams are valid, too. If I can inspire even one of them to chase those dreams, then today was a win.”
Odunze, who starred at the University of Washington before being drafted by the Bears ninth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, is no stranger to youth mentorship. While in college, he was active in community outreach, regularly volunteering at local schools and participating in programs focused on literacy and sportsmanship.
Parents and local coaches praised the event, noting how meaningful it was for young athletes to connect with a rising NFL star in such a personal setting.
“It’s one thing to watch someone on TV, but it’s a whole other thing to meet them, shake their hand, and learn directly from them,” said Coach Mark Jensen of Rockford Youth Football. “Rome’s presence here means the world to these kids.”
Odunze said he plans to continue hosting similar events in the future, both in the Rockford area and throughout Illinois, as he settles into his role as a leader on and off the field.
With training camp just weeks away, Odunze’s appearance at Boylan High School not only underscored his dedication to his community but also showcased the kind of character and leadership the Bears are excited to bring into their locker room.