From his early days at St. Viator High School to his rise as a key player for the Chicago Bears, Cole Kmet has shown that hard work, dedication, and a well-rounded skill set can pave the way for success
His transition from college football to the NFL has been marked by steady improvement and a commitment to excellence.
With his contract extension in 2023 and his increasing role in the Bears’ offense, Kmet has the potential to become one of the premier tight ends in the NFL.
Cole Kmet’s rise to becoming an NFL player is not only a testament to his hard work and talent but also to the influence of his family.
His parents, Frank and Kandace, have been crucial in shaping his character, while his grandfather’s legacy continues to inspire him.
The strong athletic foundation laid by Frank Kmet, along with the support of his mother and siblings, has undoubtedly helped Cole navigate the challenges of professional football.
The Kmet family’s enduring legacy of excellence, resilience, and support will continue to guide Cole as he works to leave his own mark on the NFL.
Also Read: Cole Kmet’s Week 4 Outlook: Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Potential
Table of Contents
Cole Kmet’s Parents: Who Are They?
A Look Into His Family Background
Cole Kmet, the Chicago Bears tight end, hails from a family with strong athletic roots.1
His parents, Kandace and Frank Kmet, have played significant roles in shaping his life.
While details about his mother, Kandace, are somewhat limited, his father, Frank Kmet, has a well-documented background as a former NFL defensive end. Together, they provided the foundation for Cole’s success both on and off the field.
Before settling in Arlington Heights, the Kmet family lived in Lake Barrington, Illinois, where Cole and his siblings—Frankie, Casey, and Copper—grew up.
The family environment was likely conducive to the development of athleticism, with both parents having a history of sports involvement. The family later relocated to Arlington Heights, where Cole continued to nurture his skills and passions.
Frank Kmet: A Former NFL Player’s Influence
Frank Kmet, Cole’s father, had a noteworthy career in sports, both in high school and college, even though his NFL career was cut short by injury.
Frank attended John Hersey High School in Arlington Heights, Illinois, where he excelled in both wrestling and football. During his sophomore year, Frank was diagnosed with diabetes, a challenge that he managed throughout his athletic career.
His senior year was a high point, as he was selected to the all-state team by the Chicago Tribune, highlighting his talent and potential in football.
After high school, Frank Kmet committed to Purdue University, where he played football from 1988 to 1991. His college career was promising, and he was part of one of the top-ranked recruiting classes in the country.
However, his promising football career was interrupted when he broke his leg during a game against Wisconsin in October 1991. Despite this setback, Frank Kmet was selected in the fourth round of the 1992 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills.
Kandace Kmet: The Supportive Mother
While Cole’s father, Frank, was the more public-facing figure in terms of athletic achievements, his mother, Kandace, played a crucial role in his upbringing.
Although there is little public information available about Kandace, her support as a mother is undeniable. As a parent, she was a source of stability and encouragement for Cole, helping to foster the right environment for him to succeed.
Being part of a family that values athletics and competition likely helped mold Cole’s competitive nature and drive.
It is clear that his parents’ support and guidance shaped his work ethic, resilience, and commitment to excelling in his career.
Cole Kmet: Bio
The Journey of a Rising NFL Star
Cole Kmet has quickly become a key player for the Chicago Bears since being drafted by the team in 2020.2
Known for his reliable hands, strong blocking skills, and consistent playmaking, Kmet has established himself as one of the NFL’s premier tight ends.
His journey to the NFL, however, is marked by a combination of determination, hard work, and significant achievements in both football and baseball.
Come join me in a round of golf as we help Pay It Forward to families battling cancer! @Weish4Ever is hosting its 5th annual Andrew Weishar Invitational and I want to join your squad! Bidding is open now, see you there: https://t.co/TSaLOUGuej pic.twitter.com/ls5juSy4yT
— Cole Kmet (@ColeKmet) June 16, 2023
Early Life and High School Years
Born on March 10, 1999, in the Chicago suburb of Lake Barrington, Illinois, Cole Kmet showed promise as a young athlete. Growing up, he was drawn to multiple sports, particularly football and baseball.
He attended St. Viator High School, where he excelled not only in football but also on the baseball field. Kmet’s athleticism was apparent early on, and his versatility as a two-sport athlete became a defining characteristic.
During his high school football career, Kmet earned a reputation as a standout tight end. His combination of size, speed, and skill made him a highly sought-after recruit. His athleticism wasn’t limited to football alone, as he also showcased his baseball talents, playing as a pitcher and infielder.
Kmet’s ability to juggle multiple sports during his high school years helped shape his competitive drive and overall athleticism, setting the stage for his future in football.
Cole Kmet: Career
U.S. Army All-American Bowl and Recruitment
Kmet’s high school football career culminated in an invitation to play in the prestigious 2017 U.S. Army All-American Bowl, a showcase for the nation’s top high school talent.3
His performance in the game confirmed his status as one of the top tight end prospects in the country. Playing on a national stage in front of scouts, coaches, and NFL personnel, Kmet demonstrated his physicality, athleticism, and ability to perform under pressure.
His impressive performances on the football field, including the All-American Bowl, led to offers from numerous top-tier college programs. Ultimately, Kmet chose to attend the University of Notre Dame, one of the most respected programs in college football.
His decision was influenced by the program’s rich tradition, competitive environment, and the opportunity to develop under head coach Brian Kelly.
College Career at Notre Dame
At Notre Dame, Kmet wasted no time making an impact. He enrolled in 2017, where he would go on to play three seasons for the Fighting Irish. Despite suffering a few injuries during his time in South Bend, Kmet proved to be an invaluable asset to the team.
His blocking ability and solid route running were evident in his freshman year, and he quickly established himself as a top target in Notre Dame’s offense.
Over the course of his three seasons at Notre Dame, Kmet played in 35 games and started 18. During his college career, he recorded 60 receptions for 691 yards and six touchdowns. While Kmet was a talented player on the field, he also earned recognition for his leadership and maturity.
Kmet also briefly played baseball for the Fighting Irish during his college years. However, he made the decision to focus on football professionally, which would ultimately pay off when he was selected by the Chicago Bears in the 2020 NFL Draft.
NFL Combine Performance
Before the 2020 NFL Draft, Kmet participated in the NFL Scouting Combine, a critical event for college players aiming to impress NFL scouts. Kmet’s performance at the Combine was noteworthy, as he showcased his athleticism and skills that would make him a viable NFL prospect.
He completed the 40-yard dash in 4.70 seconds, an impressive time for a tight end of his size. His 37-inch vertical jump and 10-foot, 3-inch broad jump highlighted his explosive power and agility.
These results solidified his standing as one of the top tight end prospects heading into the draft.
In addition to his Combine performance, Kmet’s background as a two-sport athlete and his proven track record in college made him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking for a versatile and dynamic tight end.
The Chicago Bears, in particular, saw the potential in Kmet and selected him with the 43rd overall pick in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
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Cole Kmet: Family
Cole Kmet’s Grandfather: Dave Kmet’s Legacy
Family plays a central role in Cole Kmet’s life, especially the memory of his grandfather, Dave Kmet. Unfortunately, Dave passed away in November 2020 due to complications from COVID-19 and pulmonary fibrosis.
Dave Kmet’s legacy is significant, not only as a family patriarch but also as an influential figure in the local community.
Dave Kmet was a beloved teacher and coach at Niles North High School, where he spent three decades as the head coach of both the baseball and soccer teams. Known for his dedication to his students, Dave impacted the lives of many through his teaching and coaching.
He was married to Marcia for 56 years, and together, they had four children, including Frank Kmet, who went on to play for the NFL. Dave also had 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, leaving behind a large and close-knit family.
Siblings: The Kmet Family Dynamic
Cole Kmet is not the only athletic member of the Kmet family. He has three siblings—Frankie, Casey, and Copper—who, like Cole, likely grew up in a competitive and active household.
Having siblings who share similar interests in sports likely created an environment of friendly rivalry and mutual encouragement.
While their individual paths may differ, the shared experiences of growing up in a family with a strong athletic tradition likely influenced each of them in unique ways.
The Kmet siblings are likely supportive of each other’s endeavors, creating a strong family bond that extends beyond sports. This familial support system has no doubt played a role in Cole’s ability to navigate the pressures of professional football while maintaining a grounded perspective.
Cole Kmet: Legacy
The Kmet family has a rich legacy, not just in terms of athletic achievements but also in terms of family bonds and community impact.
Dave Kmet’s contributions as a teacher and coach, along with Frank Kmet’s brief NFL career, have set a foundation of excellence that continues with Cole.
As a successful NFL player for the Chicago Bears, Cole is carrying the Kmet family name forward, upholding the traditions of hard work, perseverance, and a passion for sports.
The Kmet family’s legacy is also one of resilience. With the passing of Dave Kmet and the challenges Frank faced due to injury, the family has proven its strength in overcoming adversity.
For Cole, the lessons learned from his family members—particularly his father’s experiences—serve as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and dedication to one’s craft.
Cole Kmet: Paid Partnership
Cole Kmet tied up with Statefarm in a paid partnership and promoted on his instagram account.
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Rise to Prominence in the NFL
- As of the 2024 NFL season, Kmet has solidified himself as one of the top tight ends in the league. Over the course of his career, he has appeared in 78 games, starting 70 of them.
- As of November 29, 2024, Kmet has accumulated 250 receptions, 2,540 receiving yards, and 18 touchdowns. His ability to make plays in critical situations and his strong hands have made him a favorite target for Bears quarterbacks.
- Kmet’s continued success in the NFL can be attributed to his growth as a player. He has developed a reputation for his strong blocking abilities, which are crucial for the Bears’ offensive line and running game.
- His receiving skills, however, are what have truly set him apart as a dynamic tight end.
- With his ability to stretch the field and make plays in the red zone, Kmet has become a primary weapon in the Bears’ offense.
- In 2023, Kmet’s contract was extended for an additional four years, a testament to the Bears’ confidence in his ability to contribute for years to come.
- The extension also solidified Kmet’s place as one of the key building blocks for the Bears as they look to compete in the NFC North and beyond.
