The Chicago Bears secured an important victory on Thursday night as they continued their push through the 2026 NFL season. However, the win over the New England Patriots also brought a worrying moment that could affect their plans for the coming weeks.
Chicago has leaned on its offensive depth throughout the campaign, with its tight ends contributing as blockers and receivers. Head coach Ben Johnson has also worked to build a productive connection between quarterback Caleb Williams and his supporting cast.
The Bears must now assess their roster as they prepare for their next challenge. The latest medical information will help determine how the coaching staff adjusts its offensive plans and distributes responsibilities among the available players.
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Ben Johnson gives worrying Cole Kmet injury update
Bears head coach Ben Johnson offered a concerning assessment of Cole Kmet’s right knee injury following Chicago’s 30-24 win over New England. “We’ll know more about it tomorrow, but I don’t think it looked very good,” Johnson said after the game, according to NBC Sports.
Kmet suffered the injury in the fourth quarter while running with the ball after catching an eight-yard pass from Williams. He collided with Patriots defenders Christian Gonzalez and Robert Spillane, immediately grabbed his right knee and received attention from Chicago’s medical staff.
Cole Kmet is headed to injured reserve with a "serious" knee injury, according to Ben Johnson.
— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) October 23, 2026
Trainers helped Kmet off the field before placing him on a cart to leave the game. He gave the crowd a thumbs-up as he headed to the locker room, but the Bears quickly ruled him out for the remainder of the contest.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport subsequently reported that Kmet was believed to have suffered a serious, likely season-ending injury. However, Rapoport stressed that further testing was necessary before the team could confirm the diagnosis.
How Cole Kmet’s injury could affect the Chicago Bears
Kmet’s potential absence would leave Chicago without an experienced contributor at tight end. The 27-year-old entered the season as one of the team’s longest-tenured offensive players and has helped support the offense through both receiving and blocking duties.
He finished Thursday’s game with three receptions for 28 yards. Across seven games this season, Kmet has recorded 10 catches for 87 yards and one touchdown. Those numbers do not capture his entire contribution, particularly his work in the blocking game.
Tight end Colston Loveland could take on a larger role if Kmet misses extended time. Sam Roush also offers another option as Chicago evaluates its depth at the position. The coaching staff will need to consider those adjustments once it understands the full extent of Kmet’s injury.
The Bears are awaiting the results of further medical tests. Those findings will determine the length of Kmet’s absence and how Chicago reshapes its tight end rotation for the remainder of the season.
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