Cole Kmet Embraces Competition With Rookie Colston Loveland, Refuses to Back Down as Bears Tight End Battle Heats Up Fast
The Chicago Bears’ tight end room just got a lot more competitive, and veteran Cole Kmet is embracing the challenge with open arms. With the arrival of first-round pick Colston Loveland, many speculated that Kmet’s days as the clear-cut starter might be numbered. But if you ask the Notre Dame product, he isn’t worried. In fact, he’s fired up—and ready to prove he’s still one of the league’s most reliable tight ends.
“I’ve been competing my whole life,” Kmet told reporters after a recent training camp practice. “This doesn’t feel any different. Colston is a great player—he’s smart, athletic, and has all the tools—but I’m not going anywhere.”
A Proving Ground at Training Camp
The Bears’ 2025 training camp has quickly become one of the most talked-about in the NFL, with multiple position battles garnering national attention. But few have the intrigue of the tight end competition between Kmet, a fifth-year pro entering his prime, and Loveland, the rookie out of Michigan who’s been hailed as one of the most NFL-ready tight ends in recent memory.
Chicago selected Loveland with the 22nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, signaling just how much the organization values the tight end position in new head coach Ben Johnson’s offensive system. Johnson, formerly the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, is known for creatively utilizing tight ends—something that may bode well for both Kmet and Loveland.
“We believe we have two starting-caliber tight ends,” Johnson said. “This isn’t a matter of one guy replacing another. It’s about maximizing the talent we have. That means putting them in the best position to succeed.”
Kmet’s Confidence is Earned
Cole Kmet is no stranger to competition—or criticism. Since being drafted in the second round in 2020, he’s steadily improved year over year, becoming a dependable pass-catcher and an underrated blocker. Last season, he posted career highs in receptions (72), receiving yards (719), and touchdowns (7), serving as a key security blanket for then-rookie quarterback Tyson Bagent and now franchise centerpiece Caleb Williams.
“I’m proud of the work I’ve put in,” Kmet said. “There’s a lot of noise out there every year about who’s coming in, who’s taking your job. That’s just how this league works. I’ve been through it before, and I’ll go through it again.”
His leadership role has also expanded. Kmet has become a vocal presence on the field and in the locker room, helping mentor younger players and setting the tone for the offense.
“Cole’s been huge for me,” Loveland admitted. “He’s helped me with the playbook, the blocking assignments, even just learning how to be a pro. I have nothing but respect for him.”
Loveland Isn’t Just Watching
Respect is mutual, but the rookie is still gunning for reps. Loveland has turned heads throughout OTAs and into training camp. His fluidity as a route runner, strong hands, and ability to create separation have all been on full display. Reporters and coaches alike have noted his advanced feel for spacing and timing—skills typically rare in rookie tight ends.
“He’s a natural,” offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand said. “You don’t see many guys his size (6-foot-5, 245 pounds) move like that. He’s already showing signs he can be special.”
Loveland’s best moment of camp so far came during red-zone drills, when he shook loose from a linebacker with a sharp double move and hauled in a bullet from Williams in the back of the end zone.
“Every day is a chance to earn trust,” Loveland said. “Whether it’s from the coaches or from Caleb. That’s what I’m focused on.”
A Tight End Tandem?
Rather than creating drama, the Kmet-Loveland battle may ultimately benefit the Bears. Johnson’s offenses in Detroit frequently featured multiple-tight end sets, with players like T.J. Hockenson and Sam LaPorta co-existing and flourishing. Chicago could deploy a similar approach, utilizing Kmet’s experience and blocking prowess alongside Loveland’s dynamic playmaking ability.
“Having two guys who can do different things gives us flexibility,” Johnson said. “We can disguise looks, create mismatches, and keep defenses guessing.”
Kmet agrees. “We both bring something to the table. There’s plenty of football to go around.”
However, make no mistake: Kmet isn’t handing over the TE1 title without a fight. He’s been first in line for reps, stayed after practice for extra work with Williams, and continued to shine in both individual and team drills.
“He looks dialed in,” said Bears tight ends coach Jim Dray. “He’s playing like he has something to prove.”
Mentorship, Not Mayhem
While fans and media might push the narrative of an old-vs-new rivalry, the reality inside Halas Hall is far more collaborative. Kmet and Loveland are sharing notes, studying film together, and pushing each other in ways that elevate the entire offense.
“There’s a mutual respect there,” said wide receiver DJ Moore. “It’s iron sharpening iron.”
Kmet even joked about Loveland stealing some of his rookie-year fashion mistakes.
“I told him don’t wear sandals in the cold,” Kmet said with a laugh. “We’re good, man. This is healthy competition. It’s going to make us both better.”
Looking Ahead
With the preseason looming and roster spots being evaluated daily, the tight end storyline will continue to evolve. Johnson’s final scheme will reveal just how prominently each player is featured, but if early signs are any indication, the Bears might not have to choose between Kmet and Loveland—they might benefit from deploying both.
“This is the NFL. You earn everything you get,” Kmet said. “But I’m not backing down. I’m here to lead, I’m here to compete, and I’m here to win.”
Whether he remains the unquestioned TE1 or shares the stage with a rising star, one thing is clear: Cole Kmet is still very much in the fight—and he’s not planning to give up his spot without a battle.
