Is Cole Kmet Playing Today? Bears Tight End Ruled Out for Week 8 vs. Ravens

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet will not play in Week 8 against the Baltimore Ravens. The team officially ruled him out due to a back injury, ending his streak of 90 consecutive regular-season appearances since being drafted in 2020.

The news marks a rare absence for one of the most durable players on the Bears roster. Kmet’s reliability has been a hallmark of his NFL career, but this week his back injury forced him to the sidelines for the first time ever.

Cole Kmet Injury Update and What It Means for the Bears

The Bears’ final injury report confirmed that Kmet is out for Sunday’s matchup with Baltimore. It’s a tough break for the veteran tight end, who has been dealing with lingering back issues throughout the week. He did not participate in any of the team’s practices leading up to the game.

Kmet’s absence opens the door for rookie tight end Colston Loveland, the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Loveland is expected to take on a much larger role in the passing game. He has already shown flashes of potential this season but has also battled through injuries himself, including a hip issue that sidelined him in Week 4.

Through seven games this season, Kmet has posted nine catches for 132 yards and one touchdown. His numbers have dipped compared to previous years as the Bears adjust to a new offensive scheme. Still, his experience and blocking ability will be missed against a physical Ravens defense.

According to multiple team reporters, including NFL Network and ESPN, the Bears are optimistic Kmet’s back injury is not long-term. However, there’s no clear timeline for his return just yet. The team will continue to monitor his progress during the week.

Bears Offense Looks to Adjust Without Kmet

With Kmet unavailable, Chicago’s offense faces added pressure. Quarterback Caleb Williams has been developing chemistry with both his tight ends, and losing his veteran safety valve could affect red-zone efficiency. Offensive coordinator Shane Waldron is expected to lean on Loveland and fullback Khari Blasingame in multiple tight end sets to fill the gap.

The Bears have also been trying to involve their tight ends more in recent games, so Loveland’s increased workload could be crucial for keeping balance in the passing attack. Fans will be watching closely to see if he can step up in Kmet’s absence.

Cole Kmet’s streak may have ended, but his leadership remains strong. The Bears will need that presence on the sideline as they battle the Ravens in Week 8, hoping their young tight end group can rise to the challenge.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Cole Kmet playing today?

No. The Chicago Bears have officially ruled out Cole Kmet for Week 8 against the Baltimore Ravens due to a back injury.

Q2: What injury does Cole Kmet have?

Kmet is dealing with a back injury that kept him out of all three team practices this week.

Q3: Who will replace Cole Kmet?

Rookie tight end Colston Loveland will step into the starting role and is expected to see more targets.

Q4: How long will Cole Kmet be out?

There’s no confirmed timetable for his return. The Bears will evaluate him throughout the upcoming week.

Q5: What are Cole Kmet’s stats this season?

He has recorded nine receptions for 132 yards and one touchdown through seven games in 2025.