Chicago Bears Coach gets honest on Cole Kmet, Sam Roush issue

The Chicago Bears have big shoes to fill at tight end after Cole Kmet suffered a season-ending knee injury in the team’s 30-24 win over the New England Patriots in Week 7.

The Bears had one of the better tight end rooms in the league with Colston Loveland, Kmet, and rookie Sam Roush. Chicago also has Stephen Carlson on the 53-man roster.

During his news conference on Thursday, Bears offensive coordinator Press Taylor gave an honest assessment about the team’s plans at tight end going forward. He said the Bears would have to come up with a new game plan every week, and there wasn’t one tight end that can take the role that Kmet had for the offense.

“That is going to change week to week,” Taylor said, via CHGO Bears. “ “There is not one guy who is going to do what Cole did.”

The Chicago Bears need Sam Roush to improve

Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Sam Roush (87) after a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

Through the first seven games, Kmet recorded 10 receptions for 87 yards and one touchdown. He has been a key part of the blocking scheme. Loveland has been the top pass catcher at the position, hauling in 33 receptions for 309 yards and two scores.

Taylor was asked what Roush needed to do to earn more targets. Taylor noted that the Bears have a lot of options for quarterback Caleb Williams, but the team is happy where the third-round pick is right now.

“We have a lot of mouths to feed,” Taylor said. “We are really happy with the progress he has made and where he is going.”

Roush has three catches for 33 yards this season. He wasn’t expected to be a big part of the passing game when he was drafted, but offered the offense another blocking tight end and someone who could help with 13 personnel and special teams.

At best, the results have been mixed for Roush in his rookie season. With Kmet gone for the season, the Bears will need Roush to develop a little quicker.

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