Trade speculation is beginning to swirl around a veteran Chicago Bears offensive piece who was once viewed as a franchise building block, but may now be a victim of roster economics.

As the Bears prepare for the 2026 offseason, tough financial decisions loom — and tight end Cole Kmet has quietly emerged as one of the more intriguing names to watch. Long entrenched as a central part of Chicago’s offense, Kmet’s role has changed dramatically following the emergence of first-round pick Colston Loveland.

Loveland’s rapid ascent has pushed Kmet out of the spotlight as the team’s primary receiving tight end. While Kmet remains productive and won’t turn 27 until March, his future with the Bears is far less certain than it once appeared. His reduced involvement on offense, combined with a sizable $11.6 million cap charge in 2026, makes him a logical candidate to be moved as Chicago looks to optimize its payroll.

Any potential departure wouldn’t reflect a decline in performance or value. Kmet is widely respected inside the locker room and has multiple 500-yard receiving seasons on his résumé. Around the league, he’s still viewed as a capable starting tight end who could provide stability and production for a team lacking a reliable option at the position.

One such team frequently mentioned as a possible suitor is the Carolina Panthers. Fresh off an NFC South title, Carolina is aiming to build momentum and could look to bolster its offense with a more proven tight end to support quarterback Bryce Young. Kmet’s experience and skill set could make him an appealing target if the Panthers decide to explore the trade market.

For Chicago, moving Kmet would be a difficult emotional decision but a practical one. Offloading his contract could create valuable cap space, and even a modest return — such as a mid-to-late Day 3 draft pick — would provide additional flexibility as the Bears continue reshaping the roster.

Ultimately, Kmet’s future may hinge less on what he brings on the field and more on the financial realities of the NFL. In a league driven by the salary cap, even respected veterans can become expendable when numbers no longer align.