LAKE FOREST, Ill. – Rome Odzune had major aspirations for his rookie season. He looked no further than former college teammate Puka Nacua for inspiration.

The University of Washington product, who transferred to BYU before the L.A. Rams drafted him, went off as a rookie. He set NFL rookie records with 105 receptions and 1,473 yards, and Odzune had the confidence to shoot for the moon.

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He fell short of that for several reasons, including the Bears disappointing offensive output, a fired coordinator and a crowded-as-heck receiver room that featured superstars Keenan Allen and DJ Moore.

That will push totals down, but not Odunze’s confidence. The No. 9 overall NFL draft pick has had a few big games thus far this season and several flash moments illustrating his true potential, even if overall numbers aren’t near Nacua levels.

“I feel like I went out there and did what I could and made mistakes and tried to improve on those things and continue to do so,” Odunze said. “At the end of the day, I can put my best foot forward and do whatever I can to help this team to try and reach some of those goals.

“That’s why you set those goals. Sometimes, you fall short, and you look and you reassess, like, ‘Okay, I fell short. What do I need to go do?’ Make my next goal even bigger than that, realize that and make come to fruition. Those are all things that happened. So far, I’m grateful for where I’m at.” 

Odzune’s numbers aren’t sky high, but they aren’t in a bad place. His 624 receiving yards rank sixth among rookie pass catchers, with three touchdowns to go with it, though only 60 percent of his targets were deemed catchable.

His rookie season isn’t done and he’s continuing to work for better and prove he can be a top receiver in the league working with fellow draft classmate Caleb Williams. He has seen growth on tape and has been praised as a “special” player by receivers coach/offensive coordinator Chris Beatty.

Odunze agrees with William’s assessment that there has been frustration and encouragement during a campaign that started well and is ending under duress.

Odunze looks to continue his ascent and become the best version of himself.

“You only get one rookie season,” Odunze said. “That’s kind of motivation for me just to continue to put good stuff on tape and be the best player I can be every time we step on the field. We’ve got three more opportunities to do that and I’m looking forward to doing so.”