Tashaun Gipson Just Kicked The Cole Kmet Hype Train Into Overdrive

The Chicago Bears signed Tashaun Gipson a few months ago. Their hope is he becomes a key contributor on their defense at safety. A former Pro Bowler, he certainly could offer them a lot. He brings eight seasons of experience with him. That could prove valuable. One other thing about that. It means he's seen his fair share of great players on the offensive side too.

Especially tight end.

He was teammates with Jordan Cameron and Gary Barnidge in Cleveland. Both Pro Bowlers at one point in their careers. He also had to play against guys like Delanie Walker and Heath Miller. So he's seen his fair share of quality players at that position. This is why it was pretty significant when the 30-year old singled out Bears rookie Cole Kmet during his meeting with the media.

Tashaun Gipson has no reason to lie about this

Gipson is not the only veteran who has spoken glowingly of the 2nd round pick from Notre Dame. Jimmy Graham, a former All-Pro tight end himself couldn't hold back his admiration. He not only sees a guy who can contribute on offense right away but somebody with possible Canton aspirations by the sound of it.

“His football intelligence and his ability to soak in these plays and understand his assignments and to understand football and defenses is extremely impressive for a young kid. Also, he’s every bit of 260 (pounds). He reminds me of a young me. He’s got big legs, and the amount of potential that the kid has and the amount of talent that he has is truly unbelievable.”

For his part, Matt Nagy says he believes the tight end room has become a real strength of the team. Pessimists will likely play this off as nothing more than classic training camp fluff talk. The thing is observations from multiple members of the Bears media reflect these stories. Kmet has stood out. If this carries over into the regular season, the offense could be in business.