This dude got so much (unwarranted) hate early in the season, especially after his extension, but he’s done nothing but impress in his fourth year as a safety valve, blocker, and redzone threat.
Definitely one of Poles’ best moves as a GM so far, despite the earlier general consensus that we overspent on him among the fanbase. He could soon make a case for being a top 5 TE in the NFL, and he doesn’t get nearly enough recognition.
Cole has shown improvement each year he’s been in the league, which is what players are supposed to do. The tight end is typically a 3-4 year growth position. Cole had a 600-yard season and a 500-yard/7td season going to the negotiation table this last off-season. Anyone who was down on Cole before this year or for his contract just expects too much from young players. I swear, people have no patience for players adapting to the pro level, and they’re part of the problem.