The Chicago Bears appear increasingly likely to explore trade possibilities for Cole Kmet during the 2026 offseason. Dealing away the tight end makes far too much sense, as Colston Loveland came on strong at the end of the season and is clearly the primary tight end moving forward. This is after Kmet suffered two straight seasons of regression. Leading Chicago fans to look at the tight end market and consider potential replacements for Kmet. The Bears need someone capable of supporting the offense, who won't be a primary target, as Kmet's own stats make clear.
Year | Yardage | Receptions |
|---|---|---|
2023 | 719 | 73 |
2024 | 474 | 47 |
2025 | 347 | 30 |
When you look at the numbers above, Kmet's regression is clear, opening the door to a possible Mo Alie-Cox signing. Alie-Cox finished the 2025 season with 117 receiving yards and a lone touchdown, reaffirming he is most often utilized as a blocking tight end. This is ideal when you consider Ben Johnson's system in Detroit thrived with one primary tight end, with Brock Wright being the secondary option, recording just 13 catches in the 2024 season.
Kmet's potential departure is aided by the fact that DJ Moore, Luther Burden, and Rome Odunze are all currently rostered. Add in a talented backfield duo, and the Bears have a wealth of playmakers. It is easy to argue that the correct decision from here is to sacrifice one or two pieces to become a better overall team. This is far easier when Kmet's production is slipping, while Loveland appears to be a star in the making.
Bears Have Perfect Potential Cole Kmet Replacement in Upcoming Free Agent Mo Alie-Cox
The only counter to this is the fact that Kmet is a viable receiver and an extremely capable starter if Loveland were to go down or regress. However, the presence of the tight end doesn't offset the potential upside of acquiring draft picks and opening cap space to make needed improvements. Alie-Cox could be viewed as such, being an elite run blocker and a walking mismatch listed at 6'5 and 260 pounds.
It makes sense for the Bears to sign the veteran, improving the run blocking unit and allowing Kmet a chance to be the primary target elsewhere. His lack of chemistry with Caleb Williams and decreasing importance in the offense leave little choice for Chicago but to pivot in a different direction.
Alie-Cox has previously played for a Colts offense that is often run-heavy with Jonathan Taylor as the focal point. This sets up Alie-Cox well for the expectations he'd face in Chicago, as well as offering the pass catcher the opportunity to play with the most talented quarterback he's had in his career. Signing Alie-Cox early in free agency would be wise, as it would either stack Chicago at the tight end position or set up the potential departure of Kmet.