From the moment the Chicago Bears selected Colston Loveland, there was reason to wonder how current starter Cole Kmet would take the news. Judging from the veteran's recent comments, it is safe to say the selection wasn't popular. Kmet started by showing some obvious concern before selling the team line about having the best tight-end tandem in the league. While this is a great idea in theory, it shouldn't keep Kmet from a healthy level of concern about where exactly the 2025 season is going to push his career.
Much of this is dependent on Loveland and how quickly the rookie can get up to speed. If OTAs are any indication, it isn't going to take the rookie any time at all to work his way into the Chicago offense. This should only add to the veteran's concern that the Bears could be getting ready to turn the page to Loveland at the end of the 2025 season.
Bears Rookie Colston Loveland Has Put Cole Kmet on the Hotseat
Furthering the thought that the Bears could consider moving on from Kmet is the fact that the tight end's contract is easy to escape at the end of the season. Chicago can turn the page if they believe the duo isn't working or that Loveland is the superior option. As great as Kmet's comments are in attempting to sell the franchise vision of having the best duo in the league, it is clear the pass catcher is reading between the lines.
With this in mind, Kmet is entering the most pivotal season of his Bears career, needing to show strong chemistry with Caleb Williams within Ben Johnson's offense. Last season's dip in production simply cannot continue for the veteran to retain his role with the Bears. While the franchise might be selling the move to Kmet, from the outside it si clear the team has brought in a potential replacement.
One that has wasted no time impressing throughout rookie camp and OTAs continuing to turn up the pressure on the Bears veteran. No question, Kmet should have a healthy level of concern about where exactly the season is headed and what Loveland's early success might mean for Kmet's future.