Bears QB Tyson Bagent responds to Cole Kmet’s comments about him

Tyson Bagent is set to start for the Chicago Bears on Saturday. The team will open its preseason slate, giving the backup quarterback a chance to put in more reps. While he has been a QB1 in his NFL career, he has been a valuable piece during practices and has received praise for his work ethic. Cole Kmet has witnessed how serious he takes his job and gave him his flowers.

Bagent entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2023. He played his entire collegiate career with the Shepard Rams, earning two PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year awards. The 26-year-old has appeared in 12 NFL games, completing 99-of-149 passes for 917 yards and three touchdowns.

Kmet, on the other hand, saw his targets and playing time diminish as the 2025 season progressed. Colston Loveland emerged as a rising star tight end and will play more snaps in the upcoming campaign. However, Kmet remains a consummate professional and ready to perform when his name his called.

Chicago Bears: Tyson Bagent praises Cole Kmet after his good words for him

Kmet had nothing but good words to say about Bagent. The veteran tight end highlighted his role in the locker room and made it known that he believes he is a starter in this league. Bagent addressed reporters on Friday, and they asked for his thoughts about the veteran tight end’s comments.

“Have you guys ever seen somebody more professional than Cole Kmet?” Bagent said. “My dad sent me his press conference, and listening to him answer questions, he gives the greatest answer you could ever imagine. You translate that to everything else he does week in and week out, nobody leads by example more than Cole. The impact he has on the tight end room and young guys like Sam Roush is huge. He means the world to this team.”

Tyson Bagent on what Cole Kmet means to the team and his leadership presence:

“Have you guys ever seen somebody more professional than Cole Kmet? My dad sent me his press conference, and listening to him answer questions, he gives the greatest answer you could ever imagine. You… pic.twitter.com/S9nOaH6YDr

— BearsMuse (@ChiBearsMuse) August 14, 2026

Bagent, Kmet and the Bears will face the Cleveland Browns. Both players will receive some playing time and will have an opportunity to show the coaching staff that they can be relied on in the regular season. The schedule for kickoff is 1 p.m. ET at Soldier Field.