Cole Kmet got to live a dream in 2020 when he became the top draft pick of the Chicago Bears. His hometown team. Being able to suit up in navy blue and orange was something he thought about for years. When it came true, his play on the field exemplified his enthusiasm. Energetic, aggressive, and 100% all-in. It also helps that he got a proper education from several veterans on the roster.
Jimmy Graham was his primary mentor. No surprise since the guy played at an All-Pro level at tight end for years. His experience and leadership were invaluable to helping Kmet come along so quickly despite his limited college playing time. That being said, Graham wasn’t the only one. The rookie tight end mentioned multiple times that one guy who routinely gave him his “Welcome to the NFL” moments was Khalil Mack.
The story he told Fresh Out Of The Oven about the superstar was an utter classic.
It seems during practice one day, Kmet drew the assignment of blocking Mack on a pass play. When the rookie realized he didn’t give up a sack to the Pro Bowler, he started feeling pretty good about himself. Then later in practice, coaches wanted Mack to participate in 1-on-1 drills. At first he didn’t want to do it. That is until one of the offensive linemen started talking trash.
You can probably guess what happened next.
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This is the reality of Mack. He comes across as a calm and collected individual. Doesn’t talk a lot. Just tries to focus on doing his job on Sundays. If you decide to poke him though? That is when the beast can make an appearance. That guy who can piledrive offensive tackles with one arm before going on to wreck their quarterback. He is a monster.
Cole Kmet now understands the level he needs to operate at
It’s one thing to be physically gifted, which he is. Being great in the NFL comes down to the work you put in during practice and the intensity with which you play on Sunday. If he puts in the time, his talent should take care of the rest. Based on what he showed towards the end of the season, the intensity part won’t be a problem. Kmet seemed to relish opportunities to run over defenders whenever he got the ball.
The big thing moving forward will be whether the Bears can get him more involved in the passing game. He can be a weapon thanks to his blend of size and speed but the team had a hard time getting the ball to him. Was it the quarterback problem? Maybe. Some continue to think their scheme still isn’t good enough. All Cole Kmet can do is keep working hard.
Maybe he’ll win a few battles against Mack when he’s serious.
Based on horror stories like this? That isn’t likely to happen. Mack is a once-in-a-generation talent who figures to remain a headache for opposing offenses for another few years to come. Hopefully, Kmet can reach a similar tier in time at his position.