The expectations for Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland were high the moment the team selected him 10th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. So many things have stood in his way of living up to the hype.
Chicago's first two games were rough on most of the players, but it hit Loveland hard as he adjusted to the pro game. He had three total targets with two receptions for 12 yards. Bears head coach Ben Johnson took accountability for not involving Loveland and fellow tight end Cole Kmet enough in the offense.
The Week 3 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys started to show Bears fans a glimpse into the type of player Loveland can be. Early in the game, he had a great 31-yard completion from Caleb Williams that helped spark the team's best offensive output of the season.
That didn't last long as Loveland left the game with a hip injury. He didn't return in Week 4 against the Las Vegas Raiders as he had to watch the game from the sidelines.
That's always a grueling feeling for any player, but a rookie in particular who is trying to prove to the franchise and the fan base that he is far from a bust. The Bears got a nice view on Tuesday that will give them hope in Loveland.
The Bears' rookie tight end is back and appears ready to go
On Tuesday, the Bears were back on the practice field for the first time in a week as they returned from their much-needed bye week. The rest of the Bears were in Loveland, who practiced and appear to be back on track to play.
Loveland addressed the media after practice as he was asked about how his hip was feeling. According to ESPN's Courtney Cronin, Loveland said he felt "good" and had a similar experience when he was with the Michigan Wolverines, knowing it wasn't as bad as that injury.
"I was over it pretty quickly. I knew it wasn't a season-ending injury. I was itching to get back as soon as possible."
Read more: Ben Johnson sends brutal reminder to Bears fans regarding the offense
With Loveland on track to play on Monday against the Washington Commanders, he's got his shot to silence the Bears fans who preferred Colts tight end Tyler Warren over him. A statement game will certainly get the job done.