Where does Bears’ Cole Kmet rank among NFC North TEs based on PFF grades?

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet experienced a breakout campaign in 2023. The former Notre Dame standout produced career highs in receptions (73) and receiving yards (719). Kmet’s six receiving touchdowns fell one score short of matching his 2022 total (seven).

Kmet’s breakout season inspired us to assess how all four starting tight ends in the NFC North fared last season according to their overall Pro Football Focus grades. The division is absolutely loaded with talent at the position. Let’s break them down.

T.J. Hockenson | Minnesota Vikings | 78.8

T.J. Hockenson has established himself as an elite receiving threat ever since his trade from the Detroit Lions to the Minnesota Vikings. Hockenson took advantage of a Justin Jefferson injury to become the No. 1 pass catcher for large chunks of the 2023 season. He produced 95 receptions for 960 receiving yards (82.4 receiving grade, 78.8 overall).

Sam LaPorta | Detroit Lions | 76.5

The Lions haven’t missed Hockenson, because they somehow replaced him with another Pro Bowl-caliber talent in Sam Laporta. The No. 35 overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft hit the ground running, totaling 86 receptions for 889 yards en route to a PFF receiving grade of 81.0 and overall score of 76.5.

Cole Kmet | Chicago Bears | 73.7

It’ll be interesting to monitor how Kmet produces in Shane Waldron’s new offense. Part of Kmet’s production in 2023 was due to a lackluster passing game, often chasing leads, and few pass catching weapons. Things are now different with Keenan Allen and Rome Odunze in the fold.

Luke Musgrave | Green Bay Packers | 63.7

Luke Musgrave showcased a lot of potential for the Green Bay Packers last season. The former Oregon State standout accumulated 34 receptions for 352 yards. The Packers have a young offensive nucleus, and Musgrave will almost certainly take a sizable step forward as a sophomore throughout 2024.