Bears Tight End Cole Kmet Suffers Knee Injury, Faces Significant Time Off

The Chicago Bears are preparing for an extended absence of veteran tight end Cole Kmet, who sustained a right knee injury and was carted off the field during the fourth quarter of Thursday night's 30-24 victory over the New England Patriots.

Bears coach Ben Johnson stated after the game that "I don't think it looked very good," and that further tests on Friday would provide more clarity on the severity of the injury. Kmet, 27, was injured with approximately 5:40 remaining in the game, shortly after catching a pass and attempting to gain a first down. Two Patriots defenders converged on him near the sideline, with one appearing to clip his right leg, leading Kmet to immediately grab his right knee.

Despite flashing a thumbs-up while being taken off the field, Kmet was ruled out for the remainder of the contest. He recorded three catches for 28 yards on Thursday. Kmet has played a complementary role this season after the team drafted Colston Loveland in the first round last year, tallying 10 receptions for 87 yards and one touchdown. He has, however, played 62.2 percent of offensive snaps this season, according to Pro Football Reference.

Quarterback Caleb Williams expressed his concern for Kmet, calling him an essential figure for the team. "I don’t have the words to describe what Cole is to me, what Cole is to this team, this organization," Williams said. "He’s been through it, and it’s challenging, it’s tough and I’ll be with him, I’ll be right there with him through every step of whatever the injury is."

Teammate Colston Loveland echoed these sentiments, stating, "Love that guy. We’re going to miss him, for sure. I’m praying for him."