Cole Kmet ranks No. 24 among Bears for 2026 season

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jul 5, 2026, 5:13 PM

Last updated Jul 5, 2026

Cole Kmet ranks No. 24 among Bears for 2026 season
Summary

Cole Kmet is highlighted as the 24th most important player for the Chicago Bears in the upcoming 2026 season. The team, which had a successful 2025 campaign under head coach Ben Johnson, will face a new set of challenges due to offseason roster changes. Kmet will have a crucial role as a tight end, contributing both as a blocker and a reliable option in the passing game, despite a dip in receptions last year. With the Bears expected to continue utilizing two and three tight end sets, he will be pivotal for quarterback Caleb Williams. Speculation surrounds Kmet's future with the franchise as he enters the final year of his contract.

Source Links
By the Numbers
  • Kmet had 30 receptions for 347 yards and two touchdowns in 2025.
  • He excelled as a blocker for a top-ranked rushing attack.
  • Kmet’s current cap hit is $7.775 million for 2026.
  • He faces competition from rookie Colston Loveland and third-round pick Sam Roush.
  • Speculation exists about whether this will be Kmet's last season with the Bears.
Latest Updates
  • 5:13 PMYahoo Sports30 Most Important Bears of 2026: Cole Kmet (No. 24)
What they're saying
"

Our Most Important Bears of 2026 series continues with Cole Kmet, who will play a key role in Ben Johnson's offense.

Related Teams & Leagues

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days