Bears honor T.J. Edwards, Rome Odunze with Brian Piccolo Award

The Chicago Bears have named linebacker T.J. Edwards and rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze as the recipients of the 2024 Brian Piccolo Award, which honors one veteran and one rookie who best exemplify the courage, loyalty, teamwork, dedication, and sense of humor of the late running back Brian Piccolo. Edwards, who has been a key defensive leader since joining the Bears in 2023, earned the award for the second consecutive year and was recently rewarded with a two-year contract extension. Odunze, the ninth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, impressed teammates and coaches with his work ethic and poise, finishing his rookie season with 54 receptions for over 730 yards and three touchdowns. The awards are voted on by Bears players and are considered the organization’s most significant internal honor, commemorating Piccolo's legacy and his impactful friendship with Gale Sayers, as depicted in the film 'Brian’s Song.' Head coach Ben Johnson marked the occasion by writing a poem in tribute to Piccolo. The ceremony included Piccolo’s family and highlighted how the award continues to inspire recipients on and off the field.