Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet hated to see one of his most cherished teammates walk out the door.
Kmet has been a steady presence in Chicago over five seasons, averaging 46 receptions and 512 yards per year. The 27-year-old played a key role in the Bears’ remarkable turnaround last season. He hauled in 30 receptions for 347 yards and 2 touchdowns across 16 games.
Chicago finished 11-6, captured the NFC North title and earned the franchise’s first postseason win since 2010.
But beyond the wins and the stats, Kmet has always valued the bonds built inside the building. He considers his teammates brothers, and saying goodbye to one of the most beloved figures in that locker room hit close to home.
Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (85) makes a reception for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Chicago Bears: Cole Kmet wishes DJ Moore well after trade to Buffalo Bills
One of the offseason’s most shocking moves sent wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick. Chicago also sent a fifth-round pick to complete the deal.
Moore gave the Bears three dependable seasons, appearing in all 51 regular-season games. He finished his tenure with 244 catches, 3,012 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns.
The 28-year-old accepted the business side of the move but made sure to leave Chicago with grace.
Moore took to Instagram with a lengthy farewell post, thanking the city, his coaches, teammates and fans.
The tribute resonated across the locker room. Kmet, who forged a close bond with Moore, dropped a simple but heartfelt reply.
“Love you dude,” Kmet wrote, reacting to the unfortunate news.
Wide receiver Rome Odunze wrote: “Much love fam.”
Tight end Colston Loveland responded with a sad face emoji. Safety Kevin Byard added two heart emojis in the Bears’ signature colors. It was a fitting send-off from a team that grew as tight as any in the league.
Moore will be dearly missed in Chicago, but the Bears move forward with momentum.
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