Is a Shakeup Coming in the Bears Tight End Room?
This season was full of surprises for the Chicago Bears. Young breakout players have taken center stage and worked with veteran leaders to drive the team. Nowhere is this more evident than in the tight end room. Rookie Colston Loveland and six-year veteran Cole Kmet have formed a strong duo that has been present in every game this year. While both have contributed, Loveland's high potential has left fans wondering how the tight end hierarchy will shake out.
In his rookie season, the former first-round pick recorded 58 catches for 713 yards, which led the Bears. He also had six receiving touchdowns, which was tied for the most on the team. His athleticism and strength made him a dangerous target. The connection formed with Caleb Williams became clear. Down the stretch of the regular season and throughout the playoffs, he served as the first option on the team. Many fans were hesitant to take another tight end with their first pick, given the team's investment in Kmet, but the move appears to have paid off.
Throughout his Chicago career, Kmet has appeared in 100 total games. His health was one of his best abilities as he was rarely injured. The former second-round pick has a total of 288 catches, 2,939 yards, and 21 career touchdown receptions. All of those marks are the second most in franchise history by a tight end. While he may not be a game-changer, his steady presence has been crucial.
The veteran leader has solidified himself as one of the best tight ends in franchise history. However, his time with the team could be nearing an end. Having high investments in two tight ends severely limits them from building the rest of the roster. Currently, they are approximately four million dollars over the cap. If the team were to cut Kmet, they could save roughly eight million. It may not be a high amount, but every bit helps for a team that needs to retool.
It is a tough position to be in for a team coming off a season full of positives and joy. Kmet has served as a team leader and fan favorite for six years. This year, he took a back seat to Loveland, as he only had 30 catches for 347 yards and two touchdowns. Despite the drop in production, he still had a crucial role with the team. He offers an all-around skillset as he is athletic, can block well, and has strong hands. This season, Ben Johnson relied on two or even three tight end sets nearly every game. With that in mind, the idea of two elite athletes becomes a lot more enticing.
Loveland's rapid development has given Chicago confidence in the position. However, it has also created difficult conversations about veteran contracts for a roster already facing tough financial decisions. Kmet's leadership and consistency still carry value, especially for a young offense. Unfortunately, his role is no longer as secure as it once seemed. With cap space at a premium, Chicago must decide whether maintaining a two-tight-end investment is sustainable.
