Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet has had quite the journey, transforming from a potential trade candidate to a crucial component of Ben Johnson’s offense. Last season, Kmet found himself adjusting to a new role, dropping from TE1 to TE2 due to Colston Loveland’s rise. His stats took a hit, with 30 receptions for 347 yards and two touchdowns, a noticeable dip from his 2024 performance of 47 catches for 474 yards and four touchdowns.
Yet, when the playoffs rolled around, Kmet stepped up when it mattered most. Against the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round, he snagged three passes, including a game-tying touchdown, showcasing his knack for clutch plays. While the Bears’ playoff run ended that night, Kmet’s performance might have solidified his spot on the team moving forward.
Looking ahead, Kmet has a golden opportunity to carve out a bigger role in Chicago’s offense this season. The trade of D.J.
Moore to the Buffalo Bills shook up the Bears’ wide receiver depth chart, pushing Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III into the spotlight as WR1 and WR2. With Moore’s 85 targets up for grabs, Kmet is poised to be a key player in filling that void, alongside Loveland and whoever emerges as WR3.
The competition for the WR3 spot is heating up, with veterans Kalif Raymond and Jahdae Walker vying to fill the 65 targets left by Olamide Zaccheaus. In total, the Bears need to account for 150 lost targets, which could work in Kmet’s favor. Before Loveland’s emergence, Kmet was a consistent target for Chicago, averaging nearly 77 targets per season over four years.
While he may not hit those numbers again with Loveland’s continued development, Kmet could realistically aim for 55-60 targets and 35-40 receptions. Achieving that would significantly bolster the Bears’ offensive firepower this season.
Under Johnson’s guidance, the Bears have embraced the 12 personnel package, utilizing it 32.64% of the time last season-well above the league average. This scheme, featuring one running back, two tight ends, and two wide receivers, has been a cornerstone of their strategy. With Chicago’s strong ground game led by D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai, defenses will be kept guessing, unsure whether to brace for a pass or a run.
If the Bears maintain or even increase their use of this setup, especially without a clear WR3, Kmet’s role could expand significantly. His ability to exploit these opportunities will be crucial as Chicago aims to build one of the league’s most dynamic offenses.