The Chicago Bears are continuing to build their offense, so they will likely trade tight end Cole Kmet before the 2025 regular season. According to a Bleacher Report, the source believes the Bears will make Kmet available on the trade block since they got an emerging pass catcher that may take his starting job. Quarterback Caleb Williams, coming in last season as a rookie, changed the landscape of this organization, as Kmet is one of the several veterans who are on the hot seat. Originally selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, the former Notre Dame product could fetch viable draft capital as the Bears selected Colston Loveland in the first round of this year’s draft, surprising plenty of Chicago fans.
Loveland has all the abilities to become a potential starter in the league. The fact that the Bears got him on the first day of the draft shows that they’re willing to move on from Kmet if they have to. However, the biggest implication is that Kmet has three years left on his current contract, so they have a hard time finding a trade candidate who is willing to spend money for his services. Chicago could request Kmet to take a paycut before finalizing his trade to a new roster, which could help make the transition much smoother as the Bears are building a new regime.
REPORT: Bears Expected to Trade Former Standout Cole Kmet – 3 Logical Fits
Potential Destinations
Los Angeles Chargers
This would be a no-brainer move for the Los Angeles Chargers. Quarterback Justin Herbert is looking for a superstar pass catcher, no matter what position he is and Cole Kmet may be a solid fit for the roster. The Chargers could take a chance on Kmet in a potential trade, who will likely succeed over Will Dissly and new free agent signee Tyler Conklin. Head Coach Jim Harbaugh must understand that Herbert doesn’t succeed by handing off the ball to his running back more often; he thrives throwing it in the air, and Kmet could catch some of those passes from him.
Meanwhile, wide receiver Ladd McConkey and Kmet could form a capable duo that may become special there in Los Angeles. Many should anticipate the Chargers to release Quentin Johnston at least after the NFL Preseason, as he’s been failing to gain any traction in two seasons in the league. Veteran Mike Williams is way past his prime, so the presence of Kmet could be an elusive pass catcher for Herbert in the aerial attack.
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys are dying for a new pass catcher to save quarterback Dak Prescott and this offense. They are looking into bringing Amari Cooper, but even if they do sign him, the tight end unit might be the biggest flaw this season. Jake Ferguson is heading into contract year and had one of the worst seasons last year, so he’s on the hot seat this year. Luke Schoonmaker is no different, as he’s been failing to live up to expectations.
If Jerry Jones wants to make a “substantive trade,” then it should be Kmet to level up this passing unit.
Kansas City Chiefs
This is probably the best destination for both sides. Kmet can finally join a championship to show off his talents, and veteran Travis Kelce is only counting his weeks as he’s on the verge of retirement one day. This will likely be Kelce’s last season, and Kmet could bring the tight end unit back to life, which would be an efficient help for quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ passing game. Kmet won’t be the next Kelce, but at least they have a special talent in the making to have the spotlight in Kansas City as the new man to get the torch.
