Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet’s fantasy value has sharply fallen heading into the 2026 season. Although he never fully emerged as a dominant fantasy player during his first five years in the NFL, Kmet did manage two finishes among the top eight at his position. However, in the 2025 season, his performance took a significant downturn as the Bears made major adjustments under new head coach Ben Johnson.
Impact of Team Changes on Kmet’s Role
After suffering through a disappointing 2025 campaign, Kmet’s role was diminished following the Bears’ decision to incorporate rookie tight end Colston Loveland into the offense. Starting after the Week 5 bye, Loveland became a frequent target, causing Kmet’s snap share to plummet from a full 100% in Week 4 to just 52% by Week 6. This shift drastically reduced Kmet’s opportunities on the field.
Statistical Setbacks and Contract Status
Kmet ended the 2025 season with 30 receptions, 347 yards, and two touchdowns spread across 16 games. These statistics marked his lowest production since his rookie year in 2020, signaling a clear regression. Despite this, Kmet remains under contract with the Bears for two additional years, and while the team holds a potential option to part ways in the upcoming offseason, he is expected to stay in Chicago through 2027.
Forecast for the 2026 Season and Fantasy Implications
With Colston Loveland firmly established and the Bears’ new offensive strategy in place, Kmet is projected to assume a backup role as the No. 2 tight end next year. This demotion substantially limits his fantasy upside, making him a risky selection for 2026 redraft leagues. Dynasty managers should consider trading Kmet soon despite no longer being able to fully capitalize on his value.
“He’s not worth drafting in 2026 redraft leagues, and dynasty managers should absolutely look to trade him within the next couple of months, even though it’s too late to completely sell high.” – Fantasy Football Analysts
Available Resources to Aid Fantasy Decisions
Fantasy football experts continue to offer various tools and insights to help managers navigate shifting player values. Comprehensive rankings, weekly snapshots, and trade analyzers are part of the resources available through popular platforms. These aids allow fans to track player usage trends, target breakdowns, and team opportunities, which are essential in evaluating players like Kmet in volatile situations.
What This Means for Fantasy Managers Moving Forward
Cole Kmet’s decline exemplifies how changes in team personnel and coaching philosophy can quickly impact a player’s fantasy relevance. For those managing dynasty and redraft teams, recognizing when a once-promising asset has become a peripheral figure is critical to maintaining competitive rosters. Monitoring Chicago’s offensive dynamics and Loveland’s rise will remain key factors in assessing Kmet’s future fantasy prospects.
