The Chicago Bears currently find themselves $10 million above the salary cap. Before the new league year kicks off on March 11th, they need to achieve cap compliance and create sufficient space to engage in player transactions. This may necessitate some difficult decisions soon. One anticipated move is the release of linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, which could free up $15 million. There’s speculation about tight end Cole Kmet potentially being another candidate for departure.
Even though Kmet’s production declined in 2026, the former second-round pick demonstrated his worth through exceptional blocking and crucial touchdowns against Philadelphia and Los Angeles. His teammates and coaches highly regard him, and he serves as a trusted presence in the locker room. Releasing him would save another $8.4 million, especially with Colston Loveland on the roster. However, this could be a necessary sacrifice. Fortunately, Brad Biggs from the Chicago Tribune believes the Bears may pursue a different strategy.
“Kmet is under contract through 2027, with an $8.9 million base salary, a $1 million roster bonus (due on the fifth day of the league year), and a $100,000 workout bonus for the next two seasons. This equates to $20 million in total. His cap hit is $11.6 million annually, and there are no guaranteed funds left in his contract.
An extension for Kmet seems more likely than a trade, especially considering the importance of tight ends in Ben Johnson’s offensive scheme. The Bears could opt to extend Kmet’s contract to lower his cap impact for this season while also envisioning him playing a significant role in the offense through 2028 and potentially 2029.”
Extending Cole Kmet Makes Sense If the Money Is Right
As Loveland is expected to take on the majority of the pass targets moving forward, the Bears need to be cautious about the amount they are willing to offer Kmet. Conversely, Kmet might hesitate about an extension as he could attract better offers from teams in dire need of tight end talent. Much will depend on Kmet’s desire to remain in Chicago, his hometown where he has already earned a substantial income. He has a definitive role in Johnson’s offense, even if it isn’t primarily as a pass catcher.
Cole Kmet is a local hero, having always dreamed of playing for the Bears. After achieving notable success in 2025, he sees promise in what Johnson is building. He might be inclined to accept a pay cut to stay with the team, especially with the potential for a contract extending until his 30th birthday—an appealing security for many players in the league. Currently, primarily blocking tight ends average around $7 million annually, which seems like a reasonable starting point for negotiations considering Kmet’s dual skill set as both a receiver and blocker.
No Reason to Think Kmet Can’t Contribute Long-Term
This is a key incentive for extending his contract. Kmet has already demonstrated his utility within Johnson’s offense. Should Loveland face injury, Kmet would be prepared to step into a leading tight end role. Many teams fail to maintain successful tight-end duos due to instability. Retaining both Kmet and Loveland could provide Chicago with one of the strongest tight-end tandems in NFL history—another compelling reason for an extension.
It remains to be seen how the Bears will navigate this situation. Will Kmet be open to the proposal? With no guaranteed money left on his existing deal, the extent of the team’s offer will likely play a crucial role in the discussions. If negotiations progress positively, the Bears could secure a vital component of their offense for the years ahead while also alleviating some cap pressure to improve their roster this season.
