On the last day of June, the Miami Dolphins pulled off a blockbuster deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Miami sent Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith to the Steelers, getting back Minkah Fitzpatrick and a fifth-round pick in 2027.
Shortly thereafter, a report came out that the Dolphins were in the market for a new starting tight end and were making calls around the NFL. Of the tight ends available, this trade idea has the Dolphins and the Chicago Bears linking up for a trade involving the Bears' backup tight end.
Destin Adams and Kyle Crabbs of A to Z Sports named Bears tight end Cole Kmet as one of the top options for the Dolphins in the trade market. Miami, with a need at tight end, could target the Bears' fan favorite tight end after dealing Smith to the Steelers.
In his five seasons in the NFL, Kmet has 2,592 receiving yards, including a 719-yard 2023 season. While Kmet hasn't made the Pro Bowl like Smith, he's had a season far from what the Dolphins got from Smith in 2024.
Miami Dolphins Head Coach Mike McDaniel walks on the sidelines before the first quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Miami Dolphins Head Coach Mike McDaniel walks on the sidelines before the first quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images
The 26-year-old tight end would be a nice complement to Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. With the two superstars taking the attention from Kmet, he could see an uptick in production in the Dolphins' offense if this trade idea happened.
Part of what would make this trade idea work is that Kmet is under contract for the next three seasons at $11.6 million per year. While it's a lot for a tight end, it's worth it for Miami. He'd fill a huge need and be locked up through 2027.
Also, Kmet's cap hit will lower the assets the Dolphins will need to give up in a deal. Miami could land Kmet for a reasonable price if the Bears are willing to trade the fan favorite tight end.
Miami needs a new tight end, and Kmet would be a great fit for the Dolphins' offense. While he'd cost a lot of money, the Dolphins are in win-now mode. Landing Kmet, or a tight end in general, is a must for the Dolphins before 2025 kicks off.