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Cole Kmet left the field before halftime and headed straight to the locker room, a clear sign that the Chicago Bears could be facing an unexpected setback. The team later confirmed Kmet is in concussion protocol and currently listed as questionable to return.
Bears label Kmet questionable after early exit
The move to the locker room before intermission raised immediate concern. The Bears announced Kmet entered concussion protocol and was doubtful to come back. Chicago had just kicked a field goal to lead 17-13 when Cincinnati struck quickly before the half.
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Kmet has missed time this season with other injuries. Losing him now would be another blow to a unit already managing health issues.
Who could step up at tight end for Chicago?
Chicago has options at tight end, though they differ in style from Kmet. The Bears used the No. 10 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on Michigan tight end Colston Loveland. He brings size and promise to the roster.
- Loveland was chosen to be a long-term target for the offense.
- He has not produced at an elite level yet, but scouts praise his upside.
- Coaches can deploy him in ways that do not require replicating Kmet’s exact role.
How offensive coordinator Ben Johnson may adjust schemes
Ben Johnson can alter formations to mask the loss of Kmet. The team could use more single-TE sets.
- Increase three- and four-receiver alignments.
- Use Loveland as a hybrid big receiver in mismatches.
- Rotate veteran and younger pass-catchers to maintain tempo.
Because Kmet and Loveland are not identical players, both can be on the field in different packages. That flexibility could ease a potential absence.
Running game and short-yardage depth
The Bears were already managing a depleted backfield. Starter D’Andre Swift did not play Sunday. His absence thrust backup Kyle Monangai into action.
Monangai impressed in the first half and helped keep drives alive. If Loveland is needed more often, the running game may lean on shorter, quicker designs.
Personnel moves and situational usage to watch
Coaches may tinker with the snap counts and formations if Kmet cannot return. Key items to monitor:
- Loveland’s snap share in base and sub-packages.
- Target distribution among the receiver room.
- Usage of tight end in pass protection vs. route tree.
If the Bears prioritize passing to exploit matchups, expect more pre-snap motion and quick routes.
Other NFL stories fans are tracking today
- Romeo Doubs will wear a different protective cap in Week 9.
- Why the Titans might pursue a trade for a high-profile receiver.
- Buffalo’s pursuit of a top wideout echoes past risky deals.
- Indianapolis, at 7-1, faces pressure to add a quarterback.
- Green Bay has a defensive weakness teams will target before the trade deadline.
- New England has multiple reasons to explore adding a running back.
