Chicago Bears' GM Ryan Poles faces some tough calls, and the situation with tight end Cole Kmet is right at the top of the list. As the Bears navigate a tricky cap situation, sitting $5 million under, Kmet's future with the team hangs in the balance.
The Bears' offense, under Ben Johnson, leaned heavily on 12 personnel, ranking sixth in the league last year. This setup made sense with Kmet and the dynamic rookie duo, but Loveland's emergence has shifted the landscape.
With Kmet's production dipping and his cap hit set at $11.6 million for 2026, the math just doesn't add up. Releasing Kmet could free up $8.4 million, a tempting option for a team looking to balance the books.
Kmet's best performances came in 2022 and '23, but his recent numbers-347 yards and two touchdowns-are hard to justify at his current salary. While he's a solid player, especially in a two-tight-end system, his role as TE2 behind Loveland makes him a luxury the Bears might not afford.
Trade talks and release considerations have been swirling around Kmet. One potential lifeline could be a contract restructure or pay cut, allowing him to stay in Chicago, where he wants to be. However, Kmet understands the business realities and is prepared for any outcome.
Despite his talent and potential to start elsewhere in the NFL, the Bears' pressing needs might force them to part ways with Kmet. It's a tough decision, but one that could shape the team's future financial and on-field strategy.