The idea of the Chicago Bears trading Cole Kmet to the Kansas City Chiefs is the kind of move that quietly makes sense for both sides, especially as the 2026 approaches a transitional moment at one of the league’s most important offensive positions.
For Kansas City, everything still revolves around Travis Kelce – but the question is for how much long? Kelce has already hinted that he’s nearing the end of his storied career, and while he remains productive for the Chiefs, the franchise cannot afford to be caught unprepared when their future Hall of Famer steps away. This is where a Cole Kmet trade comes into the conversation.
Cole Kmet Makes Sense for Future Kansas City Chiefs Strategic Planning
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JANUARY 18: Cole Kmet #85 of the Chicago Bears celebrates a fourteen yard touchdown reception against Cobie Durant #14 of the Los Angeles Rams during the fourth quarter in the NFC Divisional Playoffs at Soldier Field on January 18, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
The offense of Kansas City is orchestrated by Patrick Mahomes and has long relied on a dependable, versatile tight end who can stretch the field, move the chains, and thrive in high-pressure situations. Finding Travis Kelce’s successor isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity for the franchise. Enter Cole Kmet, a player who has flashed TE1 potential but hasn’t fully broken out in Chicago’s evolving offense.
Yes, the Bears’ roster construction is shifting, particularly iwth the emergence of Colston Loveland as a potential long-term centerpiece at the position, but if Chicago views Loveland as the future then Kmet could become expendable. In this case, Kmet would be better utilized at another franchise with a critical need at the position – like the Chiefs in a post-Kelce era.
Trading Cole Kmet Could Provide Financial Flexibility for the Chicago Bears
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JANUARY 18: Cole Kmet #85 of the Chicago Bears catches a pass against Kamren Kinchens #26 of the Los Angeles Rams during overtime in the NFC Divisional Playoffs at Soldier Field on January 18, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
From a financial standpoint, moving Cole Kmet would give the Bears flexibility. While he isn’t among the highest paid tight ends in the league, every dollar matters for a team that is still building toward sustained contention. Offloading his contract in exchange for mid-round draft capital – for example, a fourth or sixth round pick – would allow Chicago to reinvest in other areas on their roster while also recouping value for a player who may not fit their long-term vision.
For the Kansas City Chiefs, this is where the deal of a Kmet trade could become particularly intriguing. Kmet’s skill set aligns well with what Kansas City demands from its tight ends as he’s a reliable pass catching with strong hands, he’s capable of working the middle of the field and contributing as a blocker, and a learning season under Kelce would allow the Chiefs to pass on key strategic knowledge to their star tight end’s successor.
Travis Kelce Influences Pivotal Cole Kmet Trade in 2026 NFL Draft