Cole Kmet’s Future in Chicago Uncertain as Bears Face Cap Crunch
Another day, another wave of offseason rumors-this time, it’s Cole Kmet’s name surfacing yet again in trade chatter. And while this isn’t the first time the Bears tight end has been floated as a potential trade piece, the conversation around his future in Chicago is starting to feel more real than speculative.
Let’s break down why.
The Bears are coming off a strong 2025 campaign that saw them claim the NFC North title and make it to the divisional round of the playoffs-a major step forward for a franchise that’s been searching for consistency. But success comes with a price, and for Chicago, that price is a projected $10.7 million salary cap deficit heading into the 2026 offseason.
That’s where Kmet’s name enters the equation.
The 26-year-old tight end (turning 27 in March) is under contract through 2027, but moving him before March 15 would free up $8.4 million in cap space. In a league where every dollar counts-especially with the Bears operating over the cap-that’s not a small number. When you pair that with the emergence of rookie standout Colston Loveland, who quickly became a go-to weapon in Chicago’s offense, the writing on the wall for Kmet becomes a little clearer.
Kmet’s role diminished this past season as Loveland carved out a significant presence in the offense. That doesn’t mean Kmet isn’t productive-he’s topped 500 receiving yards in three of his six seasons-but it does mean the Bears have options. And in today’s NFL, versatility and cap flexibility often win out over sentiment.
Here’s the kicker: Kmet’s trade value might not be sky-high, and it has less to do with his talent and more to do with market dynamics. This offseason is shaping up to be crowded with tight ends. Names like Kyle Pitts, Dallas Goedert, Isaiah Likely, and David Njoku are expected to hit free agency, which could dilute the demand for a veteran like Kmet, especially if teams can shop the open market without having to give up draft capital.
Still, teams like the Panthers and Dolphins have been floated as potential landing spots-franchises that could use a reliable, pass-catching tight end but may not want to pay top dollar in free agency. Kmet fits that mold: experienced, steady, and still in his prime.
Of course, this isn’t an easy pill to swallow for Bears fans. Kmet, a hometown product and former second-round pick, has been a reliable presence through some of the team’s darker years.
And while Loveland’s breakout season gives the Bears plenty to be excited about, Chicago fans know better than to assume that one good year guarantees another. The franchise hasn’t lifted the Lombardi Trophy since 1985, and optimism in the Windy City often comes with a healthy dose of caution.
The Bears are trying to build something sustainable-something that lasts beyond a single playoff run. That means making tough decisions, even when they involve fan favorites.
If Kmet is still wearing navy and orange come Week 1 of the 2026 season, it’ll be because the Bears believe he’s part of that long-term vision. If not, it’ll be because they’re betting on Loveland and looking to maximize every inch of cap space they can find.
Either way, this is a pivotal offseason in Chicago. And Cole Kmet’s future is right at the heart of it.