Two Bears Starters Just Got Placed on a List No Player Wants to See

Managing the NFL salary cap has never been more critical than it is today—especially for a franchise in transition. With Ben Johnson taking over as head coach—a play-caller known for offensive discipline and efficiency—Chicago is entering a new era of accountability. But even in this fresh chapter, questions remain about how resources have been allocated. And now, a fresh report has fans raising eyebrows—and maybe a few fists—after highlighting two familiar names wearing navy and orange.

Tight end Cole Kmet and linebacker Tremaine Edmunds were both spotlighted as being among the league’s most overpaid players at their respective positions. The list, compiled by Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report, singled out two names Chicago fans know well. Kmet, who inked a four-year, $50 million extension in 2023, is currently the seventh-highest paid tight end in the NFL. 

To his credit, he turned in a career-best season: 73 receptions, 719 yards, six touchdowns. Not bad, right? But then the Bears spent their top pick on Michigan’s Colston Loveland. That move didn’t whisper—it screamed long-term replacement.

Still, don’t count Kmet out. New head coach Ben Johnson appears to have a vision for the 26-year-old. Scott Bair of Marquee Sports Network noted: ‘Kmet’s overall numbers will see a decline. Take that to the bank. But he will also be an important part of this offense.’ Translation? He’s not going anywhere. Not yet.

Then there’s Edmunds—earning $18 million per year, second only to Fred Warner among inside linebackers. That kind of paycheck demands fireworks, but so far, Chicago’s getting sparklers. Sure, he’s consistent. Another 100-tackle season, another year of solid—but not spectacular—play. Pro Football Focus graded him as the 119th-best linebacker in 2024. That’s not a typo.

‘Edmunds has not… been a Pro Bowl-caliber player or helped turn Chicago’s defense into a top unit,’ the report noted. He’s a dependable tackler, yes. But at that salary, fans want more than “dependable”—they want dominance. The silver lining? The Bears can get out of the deal in 2026 with minimal cap damage. Whether they do could be the first big test of this front office’s cold-blooded side.

What happens next is up to Ben Johnson and the front office. They’ve inherited a roster with some expensive pieces that don’t quite match their price tags. In the end, it’s not just about what players cost—it’s about what they deliver when it counts. And with expectations climbing fast in Chicago, both Kmet and Edmunds are now on notice.