Chicago Bears: Five young players who could shine in 2021

Cole Kmet – Tight End

The production the Bears have gotten from their tight ends this year looks leaps and bounds better than what it was last season. Jimmy Graham was a bright spot at the start of the year, and Cole Kmet has shown flashes of elite potential as the backup to Graham. The Chicago Bears took Kmet with their highest pick, and have big hopes for him as not only the tight end of the future but as a key part of the offense going forward.

Although it has been a small sample size, Kmet has shown great hands and a high motor when he has been involved in the offense. That, on top of his development as a blocker, is very good to see for the future at tight end. He has been great on contested catches, being able to use his big frame to his advantage. Learning from a legend like Jimmy Graham in his rookie year is going to go a long way for Kmet.

If Kmet can develop as a route runner to add to his skill set, he could be a lethal weapon for this offense. He has looked great when he has been targeted, as well as proving a lot of people wrong with his above-average blocking as a rookie. There is a chance Jimmy Graham gets cut in the offseason, which would mean Kmet is the clear go-to guy at tight end.

Whether it is Nick Foles at quarterback or somebody else, Kmet could be a great safety blanket option on plays with his size, as well as a great red-zone weapon. Fans begged Matt Nagy to involve Kmet in the offense more and more. As Kmet has been more involved, he has looked better and better.

If next year’s offensive scheme can include Kmet to utilize his talents, a breakout year can be a real possibility. He has all the tools of a modern-day tight end and should be a key part of this offense going forward.