Bears Bring Close Friend Odunze for Tryout: Report

Christian Vaughn, a former Hawaii and California JUCO standout, will audition for the Chicago Bears at the team’s rookie minicamp, potentially reuniting him with close friend Rome Odunze, the Bears’ wide receiver. Vaughn’s journey has been unconventional, including a pandemic hiatus and a path from Butte College to Hawaii, where he earned a scholarship but posted modest FBS production. At JUCO, Vaughn rushed for 1,456 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2023, leading California JUCO in rushing yards per game, then arrived at Hawaii at 225 pounds after a weight cut. While his pro day measurements suggest he has the physical tools, his 2024–25 college production was limited, leaving him fighting for a spot on the Bears’ practice squad or roster during tryouts.

Odunze, a Las Vegas native and 2024 NFL Draft pick (No. 9 overall), and Vaughn have publicly referred to each other as brothers, and Odunze will also be in Las Vegas-area proximity as Vaughn works out with Chicago. Odunze posted solid numbers last season (44 catches, 661 yards, six touchdowns) before a foot injury ended his regular season, and he is aiming for his first 1,000-yard season in 2026. The Bears’ current backfield group includes D’Andre Swift, Kyle Monangai, Roschon Johnson, and Brittain Brown, with several practice-squad options like Deion Hankins and Coleman Bennett contributing depth as the team looks to secure RB3 and future roster possibilities.

Key highlights:
– Vaughn’s rookie minicamp invite signals continued NFL interest after a non-linear path from JUCO to Hawaii and limited FBS production.
– Odunze and Vaughn’s friendship adds a notable narrative element to the Bears’ rookie minicamp storyline.
– The Bears are evaluating multiple running backs for depth and future potential beyond Swift, including contenders for the practice squad.