The Chicago Bears should focus on building up their offensive weapons before considering trading players like DJ Moore and Cole Kmet. In 2024, some within the Bears fanbase feel that the team has so many options that head coach Ben Johnson might struggle to distribute the ball effectively.
While it’s true that players want targets, the Bears underperformed in 2024 despite having key players like Keenan Allen, Moore, Rome Odunze, Kmet, and D’Andre Swift.
This year, there’s concern that rookie wide receiver Luther Burden III and tight end Colston Loveland could limit Kmet’s opportunities.
Chicago Bears named as suitors for Patriots and Chargers
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report sparked some buzz on Tuesday when he proposed that the Los Angeles Chargers and New England Patriots might be ideal trade destinations for Cole Kmet.
“The Chicago Bears likely won’t look to trade their standout tight end, Cole Kmet, in the near future,” Knox wrote. “However, the 26-year-old could become a trade target for teams in need of a pass-catching tight end, especially with the Bears selecting Michigan tight end Colston Loveland with the 10th overall pick.
“Loveland has the potential to become a star under new head coach Ben Johnson, similar to how Sam LaPorta flourished with the Detroit Lions. Kmet still has three years left on his contract, with cap hits of \$11.6 million per year. The Bears may not want to pay that for a No. 2 tight end.
“The New England Patriots should take a serious look at Kmet if he becomes available. They need to surround second-year quarterback Drake Maye with reliable pass-catchers, and Kmet could be a solid long-term option at tight end. The Chargers might also be interested, as Kmet would provide a more dynamic receiving threat than Tyler Conklin or Will Dissly. Over his five NFL seasons, Kmet has accumulated 258 catches for 2,592 yards and 19 touchdowns.”
The Bears need Cole Kmet in 2025
There are several compelling reasons why the Bears should have no interest in trading their team captain in 2025. The most obvious is that Colston Loveland won’t be able to practice anything but mental reps with the team until he recovers from shoulder surgery, and he’s not expected to return until at least the start of training camp.
Even if Loveland were fully healthy, there are still concerns about his ability to perform as an in-line tight end. The Bears need Kmet not just as a receiving threat, but also as a crucial blocker and someone who can contribute in the passing game after chipping.
Trading Kmet would strip the Bears of a key advantage in 12 personnel, which utilizes two tight ends. If Ben Johnson can craft an offense that takes advantage of having both Kmet and Loveland on the field, Chicago could create significant mismatches against opposing defenses in 2025.
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