Cole Kmet Was Essential to Ben Johnson's Offense Functioning Cleanly in 2025

"He became the glue piece, the tight end trusted in pass protection, the edge-setter in the run game, and the reliable target when things tightened late. The Bears finished third in the NFL in rushing, and Kmet's fingerprints were all over that. Head Coach Ben Johnson leaned on him heavily in-line, often matching him up against defensive ends and outside linebackers in protection. By season's end, he wasn't just a complementary option; he was essential to the offense functioning cleanly in 2025."

"His biggest moment came in the divisional matchup against Los Angeles. With the Bears mounting another late rally, Kmet hauled in a 14-yard touchdown that actually traveled 51.2 air yards (arguably the most dramatic catch of his career) to tie the game and force overtime. It was the kind of play that underscored his value as a player who might not not always be the first read, but is always ready when the moment demands it."

"Earlier in the year, his performance in Minnesota offered a clearer look at his all-around impact. Kmet caught all five of his targets for 45 yards in a 19-17 win, but the real story was what he did beyond the box score. Johnson praised his blocking, his toughness in protection, and the physicality he brought after the catch. When Kmet carried the ball, he lowered his shoulder, finished runs, and energized the sideline."

Cole Kmet posted 30 receptions, 347 yards, and two regular-season touchdowns in 2025, numbers that reflected reduced volume. Kmet's role shifted as rookie Colston Loveland assumed a major role in the passing game. Kmet served as the in-line glue, trusted in pass protection, an edge-setter in the run game, and a reliable late-game target. The Bears finished third in the NFL in rushing, with Kmet contributing significantly to that success. Kmet's 14-yard touchdown against Los Angeles traveled 51.2 air yards and forced overtime, underscoring his clutch value. In Minnesota he caught all five targets for 45 yards and excelled as a blocker and physical runner.

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