SEATTLE — This time last year, as the Bears embarked on Matt Nagy’s final boondoggle with Andy Dalton at quarterback, Cole Kmet’s mind wandered into the future.
He saw then-rookie quarterback Justin Fields relegated to second-string as part of an ill-conceived plan that blew up on the Bears halfway through their second game and knew he needed to begin establishing their connection. He stayed late to practice with Fields knowing their time would come.
It’s here.
There remains great uncertainty about both players, but their careers are syncing up for a perfect opportunity this season. The Bears are finally fully committed to Fields as their starter and running an offense tailored to his skills.