Trading Cole Kmet was not something Chicago Bears fans ever considered going into 2025. Sure, the tight end didn't have the season many had hoped for in 2024, but that wasn't entirely his fault. The team had serious problems with the coaching staff led by offensive coordinator Shane Waldron. On top of that, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams had never played in a system that prioritized tight ends. Such a combination made it almost impossible for Kmet to function at a high level.
Yet what really kicked off the trade rumors was when the team selected Colston Loveland in the first round of the draft. Suddenly, Kmet's place on the roster looked dicey. Loveland's style of play meant it was a virtual guarantee he would become the primary pass-catching tight end moving forward. Still, head coach Ben Johnson assured him the new offense would utilize both of them. Some remain skeptical, which is why CBS Sports believes Kmet is likely the primary target for a team now in the market for tight end help.
The Miami Dolphins.
Kmet signed a four-year, $50 million extension with the Bears ahead of the 2023 season, but Chicago just utilized a top 10 pick on former Michigan tight end Colston Loveland. That in itself does not guarantee Kmet is on the trade block, but it does make it easier for Chicago to move off him should it field an enticing-enough offer.
After putting pen to paper on his new contract, Kmet caught a career-high 73 passes for a career-high 719 yards and six touchdowns. However, with Caleb Williams at quarterback in 2024, Kmet caught 47 passes for 474 yards and four touchdowns. It was statistically his worst season since his rookie year in 2020. Odds are Chicago wants to tout a two-headed monster at tight end in 2025, but Chris Grier should at least call Ryan Poles and have a conversation.
Cole Kmet will likely determine how this will go.
It doesn't seem like the Bears are inclined to trade him. They love his locker room leadership and versatility. He's still young and playing on an affordable deal. That said, things could change if Cole Kmet decides he doesn't like what his role will be in Johnson's offense. There is no question he would be the primary receiving target at tight end in Miami. It is hard to begrudge him if he wants that kind of role. Kmet has every right to request a trade. Whether the Bears grant it depends on what they could get back. If the Dolphins are prepared to offer a day two pick, it could lead to something.
As things stand, Kmet isn't likely going anywhere. Then again, it wouldn't be the first time the Bears sent a tight end to Miami in a trade. It happened with Adam Shaheen a few years ago. These two teams have regular dialogue—something to watch.
