Cole Kmet was the first pick of the 2020 draft class. Yes, it was midway through the 2nd round but being the first guy chosen always comes with expectations. Kmet was considered the best tight end in his class. A nice mix of size, power, and athleticism. His first 21 games didn’t inspire confidence from Chicago Bears fans though. He made just 38 catches for 324 yards and two touchdowns. Not exactly the big production the team has sorely needed from that position.
Some were even starting to declare Kmet a bust. However, momentum feels like it might be shifting now. In his past 10 games, the tight end has 458 yards on 43 catches. A significant uptick in productivity. Despite the ongoing problems with the offensive system he plays in and the lack of consistency at quarterback. One person that believes Kmet is being overlooked in terms of value to the offense is Tom Thayer. The Bears color analyst broke down some film from the big win over the Seattle Seahawks to illustrate why.
Sometimes expectations unfairly mask reality.
People had visions of Travis Kelce and Rob Gronkowski when the Bears drafted Kmet last year. Even as draft experts insisted that wasn’t the type of player he was. He did have the natural speed and explosion to be those guys. His game was closer to Heath Miller or Kyle Rudolph. A huge body, natural strength, and enough mobility to be a bigger threat in the passing game than defenses are often ready for.
His biggest issue this season has been the drops. He has five thus far including at least one that should’ve been a touchdown. That is something he needs to get cleaned up if he’s going to continue making strides. Yet to say his second season is a failure isn’t true. It might not be the huge production spike fans wanted but it’s still an improvement. He could finish with triple the yardage he had as a rookie.
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One also should not forget Cole Kmet is 22-years old
He is still a kid and not done maturing. He spent half of his college career playing baseball. So his mastery of the tight end position was always running behind. It seems the extended work and experience are beginning to show. With a better system that can utilize his talents, he might be approaching a breakout in 2022. Especially if Justin Fields continues to take steps forward at quarterback.
The point is Cole Kmet is not a bad player. He might not be the star Bears fans were hoping for, but he’s turning into a solid starter. That is more than fine for a 2nd round pick. He can be a capable role player on offense in the coming years. Somebody that becomes the 3rd or 4th option in the passing game while becoming a regular contributor as an extra blocker as well.
These types of players are valuable.
Kmet brings versatility. Few things are more coveted in the NFL than that. He can catch the ball, run after the catch, and isn’t afraid to throw his body in front of defenders. It isn’t hard to envision him continuing to improve with better coaching. Don’t be surprised if people end up viewing that pick a little more fondly down the line.
