As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, one of the most intriguing trade scenarios gaining traction includes Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet potentially heading to the Carolina Panthers.
The proposed deal is straightforward and would likely see Kmet go to Carolina in exchange for picks No. 119 and No. 200, corresponding to fourth and sixth round selections, which would go back to the Bears. Here’s how this scenario is likely to play out as the 2026 NFL Draft gets underway.
A Cole Kmet Trade to the Carolina Panthers Would Benefit the Chicago Bears in the 2026 NFL Draft
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – SEPTEMBER 21: Cole Kmet #85 of the Chicago Bears makes a catch for a touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter at Soldier Field on September 21, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
On the surface, trading Cole Kmet to the Carolina Panthers may seem like a modest return for the Chicago Bears for a starting-caliber tight end, but context is everything in this situation. Kmet has been a reliable, mid-tier TE1 over the past few seasons as he’s offered consistent production as both a pass-catcher and a blocker.
However, Chicago’s offseason trajectory suggests a shift in their priorities. With the emergence of rookie standout Colston Loveland, Kmet is projected to slide into a TE2 role if he remains on the Bears roster in 2026. This is a significant factor in the trade predictions surrounding Cole Kmet. The Bears are not just managing depth – they’re managing their finances, too. By dealing Kmet with a pre-June 1 designation, Chicago can clear $8.4 million in cap space for 2026 and a substantial $10 million in 2027.
A Cole Kmet Trade Will Free Up Significant Budget for the Chicago Bears to Draft a Cost-Effective Replacement
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JANUARY 18: Cole Kmet #85 of the Chicago Bears celebrates a fourteen yard touchdown reception against Cobie Durant #14 of the Los Angeles Rams during the fourth quarter in the NFC Divisional Playoffs at Soldier Field on January 18, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
For a team looking to build around a young core and maintain flexibility, the potential savings in their budget are hard to ignore. A Cole Kmet trade would also open the door for Chicago to draft a cheaper replacement in the middle rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft, thus aligning with a more cost-effective roster construction strategy.
From the perspective of the Carolina Panthers, the move to trade Cole Kmet is equally as logical as it is for the Chicago Bears, but perhaps more urgent on Carolina’s part. The Panthers are still in evaluation mode with quarterback Bryce Young after an up-and-down start to his NFL career. Now the franchise must determine whether Young is their long-term answer, and to do that they need to surround him with as much offensive talent as they possible can – particularly when it comes to reliable pass-catchers who can operate in the middle of the field. For this purpose, Kmet would be a perfect fit for the Panthers.
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