CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze was host to a youth football camp in Champaign on Saturday.
The camp, put on in partnership with Flex Work Sports, welcomed more than 400 kids to St. Thomas More High School.
There was also a surprise guest appearance from another Bears player: Wide receiver DJ Moore.
Moore, who led the Bears in receiving yards on the 2024 season, showed up unannounced.
“He didn’t have to do that,” Odunze remarked. “I never mentioned I was holding a camp here. I didn’t ask anyone to come because it was a bit far from where everyone else was. But that’s who DJ is — my friend, like family. He showed up with his family, and it’s always wonderful catching up with them. Having DJ here means a lot, and that’s just a testament to the Bears organization and the kind of heartfelt people they are. DJ’s my guy, and I really appreciate him.”
“I love Rome,” Moore told WCIA. “Rome came to my camps so had to show the same respect and make my way out here with my family.”
It’s one of a handful of camps Odunze is hosting over the 2025 offseason. He’ll be in Rockford, Ill. for another one on Sunday, July 13.
“It’s always enjoyable to give back to them,” he said. “For them to have this chance to come, work hard, and meet someone from the NFL — that’s what it’s all about. Hopefully, it offers them some inspiration since they definitely inspire me with their energy and enthusiasm.”
As for the 2025 season, which will be Odunze’s second in the NFL and the Bears’ first under new head coach, he says the excitement is visible.
“Everyone is excited, and rightfully so,” he expressed. “We’re creating buzz and anticipation for the season, and it’s well-deserved. These are exciting times with lots of changes… I believe we have the necessary pieces to bring it all together…”
The camp consisted of various drills, 7-on-7 games with Odunze at quarterback and photos/autographs.
Mason Davis attended the camp from Monticello and left with a lasting memory.
“I caught a touchdown pass from Rome,” Davis said. “He’s a lot taller than I expected, but he was amazing today.”
