What's Happening?
The Chicago Bears are experiencing a successful 2025 season under head coach Ben Johnson, having secured 11 wins and advancing to the divisional round of the playoffs. Despite the team's overall success,
tight end Cole Kmet has had a less impressive year, recording only 30 receptions for 347 yards and two touchdowns over 16 games. Kmet's diminished role in the offense, losing his starting position to rookie Coleston Loveland, has led to speculation that he may be a candidate for release in the upcoming offseason. If released, Kmet could become a target for the Detroit Lions, who are in need of depth at the tight end position. The Lions, facing a negative $9 million cap space, might still pursue Kmet for his pass-catching and blocking abilities, potentially on a team-friendly deal.
Why It's Important?
The potential release of Cole Kmet by the Chicago Bears could have significant implications for both the Bears and the Detroit Lions. For the Bears, cutting Kmet would free up salary cap space, allowing them to invest in other areas of need. For the Lions, acquiring Kmet could bolster their tight end position, providing quarterback Jared Goff with an additional offensive weapon. This move could be particularly beneficial given the injury history of current Lions tight end Sam LaPorta, who missed part of the 2025 season. The decision to release Kmet and the Lions' interest in him highlight the strategic roster management and financial considerations NFL teams must navigate during the offseason.
What's Next?
If the Bears decide to release Cole Kmet, the Lions will likely evaluate their financial situation to determine if they can accommodate his contract. The Lions may need to make additional roster moves to create cap space, potentially restructuring existing contracts or releasing other players. As the offseason progresses, both teams will continue to assess their rosters and make decisions that align with their long-term strategic goals. The outcome of these decisions could impact the competitive balance within the NFC North division, influencing the playoff prospects for both the Bears and the Lions in the 2026 season.
