Cole Kmet Named Top Cut Candidate Amid Bears' Salary Cap Concerns
Cole Kmet is emerging as a Bears cut candidate due to salary cap pressure. Here’s why a trade or restructure may still happen.
The Chicago Bears have spent aggressively reshaping their roster this offseason, particularly on defense. But those moves may now be forcing difficult decisions elsewhere, including at tight end.
According to a recent Bleacher Report analysis, Cole Kmet has emerged as one of the most notable cut candidates in the NFL, a surprising development for a player who has been one of Chicago’s most consistent offensive contributors.
Why Cole Kmet Is Suddenly on the Radar
This isn’t about performance as much as it is about roster math.
Kmet, still just 27 years old, has been a reliable part of the Bears’ offense for years. He’s produced 288 receptions, 2,939 yards, and 21 touchdowns across six seasons, steady production that typically secures a long-term role.
But the context around him has changed.
The Bears have transitioned to 2025 first-round pick Colston Loveland as their primary tight end option. Loveland led the team with 713 receiving yards in 2025, while Kmet finished with 347 yards and two touchdowns in a reduced role. That shift in usage is what’s driving this conversation.
The Bears' Cap Situation Driving the Decision
The bigger issue is financial.
Chicago has invested heavily in rebuilding a defense that ranked near the bottom of the league, adding multiple veterans to stabilize the unit. As a result, the Bears are now operating with extremely limited cap flexibility. They're near the bottom of the NFL in effective cap space.
That reality forces tough roster evaluations.
If the Bears cannot restructure Kmet’s contract or find a trade partner, releasing him after June 1 would create approximately $9 million in cap savings. For a front office trying to balance the roster books, that’s a meaningful number.
Why a Cole Kmet Trade Still Makes More Sense
Despite the “cut candidate” label, a release feels like the least optimal outcome.
Kmet still has clear value around the league. He’s durable, productive, and entering his prime. Teams looking for a pass-catching tight end would likely have interest, especially given his consistency and experience in a starting role.
That’s why a trade remains the more logical path. Even a modest return would allow the Bears to recoup value rather than losing a proven player for nothing.
What This Means for the Bears' Offense
If Kmet were moved — either via trade or release — it would signal full confidence in Loveland as TE1 and likely require additional depth behind him.
But it comes with risk.
Kmet has been one of the more dependable pieces in Chicago’s offense. Removing that safety valve, especially for a still-developing quarterback, could have ripple effects.
Final Take on Cole Kmet
Cole Kmet being labeled a cut candidate says more about the Bears’ cap situation than it does about his ability.
He remains a productive, reliable tight end entering his prime. The real question isn’t whether he can still contribute; it’s whether the Bears can afford to keep him.
A trade is the cleanest solution. A release is the fallback.
Either way, it’s clear Chicago may have a major decision coming, regardless of what Ryan Poles has been saying this offseason.
