One of the most surprising picks in the middle rounds of this year's draft was the Chicago Bears taking tight end Sam Roush. There was reason to wonder if this spelled the end for Cole Kmet, as the veteran has often been a source of trade rumblings. However, it appears that the Bears are content with their current depth chart and were more so adding a piece for the future. This greatly limits the potential impact Roush can make in 2026, and pours a bit of cold water on a pick that remains a head-scratcher.
Last year's first-round selection, Colston Loveland, is clearly only growing into a larger role, and Kmet remains a solid target. This was reflected in last year's snap counts, with Chicago's third option, Durham Smith, playing only 335 total offensive snaps, while both Loveland and Kmet totaled well over 800 snaps played. This makes it clear that Roush won't have much opportunity on offense as a rookie, but that shouldn't discourage the tight end.
With that being said, it appears the Bears are preparing for life after Kmet, and this pick was made with this future in mind. One that is looking beyond a 2026 season when it seems the veteran will continue to be an important piece of the Chicago offense. It makes sense not to want to part ways with his stability in the same offseason the team parted ways with receivers Olamide Zaccheaus and DJ Moore.
Bears Clearly Pouring Cold Water on Sam Roush Having Consistent 2026 Impact
This isn't to argue that Roush won't be on the field, but rather pointing out the reality of a stacked position that severely limits the blocker's upside. It seems likely that Roush will be utilized in short-yardage and goal-line situations, with the snap count of Kmet and Loveland matching last year's totals.
Still, there is value in the pick, as it clearly prepares for the future, given that only two years of team control remain for Kmet. There is also the added depth aspect with both starting options playing an incredibly physical style, providing clear motivation for Chicago to be prepared for any potential injuries.
While this shows the clear upside of the move, it is still a bit disheartening to look at draft fallout and realize a pick that could've been used to add a clear contributor was spent on depth. Plain and simple, Roush won't be counted on as more than a reliable backup option as long as the current duo is in place.
For Chicago, there will be plenty of attention paid to this pick and how it plays out, with fans already debating potential contributors that could have been added in place of the pass catcher. Given the depth chart at that spot, it is a fair question to raise, as the rookie faces an uphill battle to find consistent playing time.
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