Bears Insider Leaves Door Wide Open On Cole Kmet's Future

Even with a new coaching staff, it isn't difficult to pinpoint players on the roster who are probably safe. On offense for the Chicago Bears, that list includes Caleb Williams, Rome Odunze, D.J. Moore, Darnell Wright, and, of course, their new additions via trade and free agency. D'Andre Swift and Braxton Jones are two wild cards since both could potentially be replaced with a 1st round pick next month. What not enough people have considered is tight end Cole Kmet could be facing a similar situation.

Chicago signed him to an extension last year, believing he'd play a central role in their offense. Instead, their coaching staff marginalized him while trying to force-feed Keenan Allen. It didn't work. Many hope the arrival of Ben Johnson might get the tight end position more involved. The problem is Johnson had no say in Kmet's retention on the roster. He may have a different vision for what he wants at the position. Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune left the door open for the Bears to potentially seek alternatives in the draft.

To answer your questions, I think Johnson likes Kmet, but actions will be more instructive than words. Johnson hasn’t worked on the field with anyone yet. Will Kmet see the ball more? I’d think it would be difficult for him to be less utilized in the offense this season. Will the Bears draft a tight end? They no doubt are taking a hard look at a good class of tight ends. Free-agent signee Durham Smythe is a veteran blocker with limited pass-catching ability. They could use a young player in the mix. I wouldn’t rule out any of the top tight ends in this class.

Cole Kmet can't consider himself safe.

People need to remember the Detroit Lions traded T.J. Hockenson, a Pro Bowler, in 2022 because he didn't fit Johnson's vision. To that end, there is no reason to think Cole Kmet is a lock for this team long-term. His blocking prowess might appeal to the Bears head coach, but his limited ceiling as a pass catcher can't be ignored. This 2025 draft class is considered strong at tight end, headlined by Penn State's Tyler Warren, who is a projected top-10 pick. Coleston Loveland from Michigan is compared to Sam LaPorta, who Johnson coached to great success in Detroit. Biggs is correct. While Kmet isn't in immediate danger, his status on the roster is anything but secure.