Bears Predicted to Cut Ties with Cole Kmet in Blockbuster Trade with Steelers

The Chicago Bears are reportedly considering a major shake-up at tight end, with rumors swirling that they could trade Cole Kmet to the Pittsburgh Steelers in a blockbuster deal. This potential move would mark a significant shift in the Bears’ offensive strategy, as Kmet has been a key piece of their passing attack since being drafted in 2020.

Why the Bears Might Move On from Kmet

1. Scheme Fit Under Shane Waldron

   • New offensive coordinator Shane Waldron is expected to implement a system that emphasizes versatility at tight end. While Kmet is a reliable pass-catcher and solid blocker, the Bears may be looking for a more dynamic playmaker who can stretch the field.

   • Waldron’s past offenses (Seahawks, Rams) have utilized tight ends in a variety of roles, and Chicago might believe they can find a better fit in the draft or free agency.

2. Financial Considerations

   • Kmet signed a four-year, $50 million extension last offseason, making him one of the highest-paid tight ends in the league.

   • With Caleb Williams on a rookie deal, the Bears may prefer to allocate resources elsewhere, such as wide receiver or offensive line.

3. Draft Capital for Future Moves

   • Trading Kmet could net the Bears a Day 2 draft pick, which they could use to add depth at other positions.

   • Pittsburgh, in need of a reliable tight end, might be willing to part with a third or fourth-round selection.

Why the Steelers Would Want Kmet

• Upgrade Over Pat Freiermuth?

  • While Pat Freiermuth has shown flashes, injuries and inconsistency have plagued his time in Pittsburgh.

  • Kmet would provide Russell Wilson (or Justin Fields, if traded) with a dependable security blanket in the middle of the field.

• Arthur Smith’s Tight End-Heavy Offense

  • New Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith loves utilizing tight ends (see: Kyle Pitts, Jonnu Smith in Atlanta).

  • Kmet’s ability as both a receiver and blocker makes him an ideal fit.

Potential Trade Package

• Bears receive: 2025 3rd-round pick (possibly conditional)

• Steelers receive: Cole Kmet

Impact on the Bears’ Offense

If Chicago moves Kmet, they could turn to:

• Free agency (Dalton Schultz, Gerald Everett)

• The draft (Brock Bowers, Ja’Tavion Sanders)

• Internal options (Robert Tonyan, Stephen Carlson)

While trading Kmet would be a bold move, it aligns with GM Ryan Poles’ aggressive approach to reshaping the roster. For Pittsburgh, adding a proven tight end could be the missing piece in their revamped offense.

Would you pull the trigger on this deal if you were the Bears? Let us know in the comments!

This is a hypothetical scenario based on recent rumors. Follow for more NFL trade updates.