The Chicago Bears were on the wrong side of a terrible decision by the officials in Sunday’s 21-9 loss to the New Orleans Saints in the NFC wild card game.
Rookie tight end Cole Kmet was penalized 15 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct after seeing Saints defender Malcom Jenkins see after a short reception. Kmet, who returned the ball to the referee after the play, explained the misunderstanding to reporters on Monday.
“They (referees) told me that I was throwing the ball flagrantly at 27,” Kmet said. “Later in the game, up to 27 said they got one.”
Kmet went on to say that he was never flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct – ever – until Sunday’s defeat.
“My mother was upset because she knew that her son would never do something like this”, Kmet said.
While the Bears’ 2020 season ended disappointingly, Kmet’s debut year did not. His playing time increased in the second half of the year and he ended his debut season with 28 receptions for 243 yards and two touchdowns.
Kmet is a big part of what the Bears will do in the attack in 2021 and beyond.
“I want to win a Super Bowl in Chicago,” said Kmet.