The Chicago Bears defeated the New England Patriots 30-24 on Thursday, October 22, at Soldier Field, but the victory came with a worrying setback. With 5:46 remaining in the fourth quarter, Cole Kmet caught an eight-yard pass from Caleb Williams before colliding with Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez and linebacker Robert Spillane. He immediately grabbed his right knee and went down.
Trainers helped the tight end to his feet, but because he could not put weight on his right leg, Kmet was taken off the field on a cart and ruled out for the remainder of the game. Head coach Ben Johnson said the initial outlook did not look encouraging, but further evaluation was needed to determine the severity.
Kmet finished with three catches for 28 yards, catching all three passes thrown his way. With Kmet sidelined, rookie Colston Loveland is the primary tight end to watch, while Sam Roush could see an increased role. Loveland and Roush will need to help fill the gap in both the passing game and blocking duties.
As of October 23, the Bears had not announced a confirmed diagnosis or return timeline. An MRI and further medical evaluation will be important in determining whether he misses a few games or faces a longer absence. A cart-assisted exit alone cannot establish whether the injury involves the ACL, MCL, or another part of the knee.
How Cole Kmet’s Absence Could Hurt the Bears’ Offense
Kmet is more than a receiving tight end. His blocking helps the Bears establish their running game, while his presence gives Williams another option over the middle. His absence could force Chicago to adjust its protection schemes and use more three-receiver formations. Loveland has an opportunity to take on a larger role, but the Bears will need consistent contributions from their remaining tight ends.
Chicago gained momentum, improving to 5-2 after its 30-24 win over New England. Williams threw for 308 yards and two touchdowns, and Luther Burden III finished with 130 receiving yards and a score. However, cornerback Malik Muhammad also left the Patriots game with a toe injury, while defensive end Montez Sweat is expected to return from suspension in Week 8. Chicago must manage those personnel changes without losing its offensive rhythm.
The Bears are scheduled to visit the Seattle Seahawks in Week 8, giving Chicago extra time to prepare after its Thursday night game. Whether Kmet can return will depend on the medical findings and his recovery. Until the team provides a confirmed diagnosis, any suggestion that he will miss the rest of the season remains speculation.
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