A 53-man roster is designed to have backups for just about every position on the field. That said, special teams is a position group that has a few replacement options.
Unlike some college rosters, NFL teams only carry one kicker, one punter, and one long snapper. In emergency cases, surprising characters step into unexpected roles.
On Sunday, in the annual NFL London Games, the Chicago Bears found themselves without their long snapper after Scott Daly was ruled out with a knee injury. Who stepped into emergency long snapping duties you ask? None other than Cole Kmet.
The former Gold Domer is the team’s backup long snapper. Kmet is more than just a reliable tight end, he has some hidden talents as well.
In addition to the new position, Kmet found the end zone via a beautiful pass and an angry run on the other side of the pond.
Kmet’s 31-yard score put the Bears in front over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Just before the half, Kmet added a second score, capping off a 10-play, 85-yard drive to go ahead another possession.
If Daly’s injury is long-term, the Bears will surely sign another snapper. However, it’s good to know the backup role is safe in Cole Kmet’s hands as long as he’s a Bears.
