Bears TE Cole Kmet sounds off on getting 0 targets in Week 9

Good things happen when tight end Cole Kmet has been involved in the Chicago Bears' passing game. So it's one of life's biggest mysteries why Kmet has been a non-factor in the past two games, including Sunday's atrocious loss to the Arizona Cardinals.

Kmet, who has shown to be one of the best tight ends in the league, was targeted zero times in Week 9, which is an absolute mystery to NFL fans and analysts. The previous week against the Washington Commanders, Kmet was targeted just once -- a 14-yard reception.

Following Sunday's loss, Kmet was asked about not being targeted in the passing game, and he took the high road while also taking more accountability than his coaches have this season.

"I live by a saying, 'Those who complain about how the ball bounces tend to fumble it comes their way,'" Kmet said. "That's kind of what I always tell myself. I'm always looking at things on tape that I can get better at, what ways to get more open."

It's no coincidence that the best offensive outings for the Bears this season have featured Kmet in a prominent role in the passing game. Against the Carolina Panthers -- a 26-10 win -- Kmet had three catches for 57 yards. In the team's last victory -- a 35-16 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars -- Kmet had five catches for 70 yards and two touchdowns.

Chicago's offense has been abysmal in their last two games -- since coming off the bye week -- managing just 24 points and two touchdowns. While there is plenty of blame to go around, including offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and a struggling offensive line, the Bears need to get Kmet more involved to help alleviate the pressure off rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, who needs a reliable option.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears TE Cole Kmet sounds off on getting 0 targets in Week 9