Plenty of NFL analysts questioned the Chicago Bears when they selected tight end Colston Loveland with the tenth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. The move was viewed by many as a "luxury pick" that ignored more pressing roster needs.
Nobody's asking questions now.
Loveland had an electric rookie season, emerging as a favorite target for Caleb Williams late in the year. He became a key cog in Ben Johnson's offense and should be set for another major improvement in 2026.
Ted Nguyen of The Athletic has taken notice. He listed Loveland as one of the ten most versatile players in the league. The young tight end's diverse skill set could quickly take him from draft success to unquestioned superstar.
Bears' Colston Loveland one of the NFL's most versatile players
Loveland is one of the few tight ends in the NFL who is dominant both as a receiver and as a blocker. That's what makes him one of Nguyen's most versatile players.
Nguyen said, "Loveland, the No. 10 pick in 2025, is just 22, improved into a good blocker by the end of the season and became the focal point of an explosive passing game."
The young tight end's receiving production speaks for itself. He finished his rookie season with 1.82 yards per route run, ranking seventh among qualifying tight ends. He logged six touchdowns despite playing a minor role in the offense for the first portion of the season. The former Michigan star was a clear mismatch against both linebackers and safeties.
But his impact as a blocker often goes unnoticed. He improved drastically as a run blocker throughout the season, and the Bears' rushing efficiency rose with him. That versatility allowed Johnson to use Loveland as an in-line tight end, disguising the Bears' offensive looks and creating opportunities for explosive plays.
The rookie tight end was a key factor in the Bears finishing fourth in the league in EPA (Expected Points Added) per rush. He gave Johnson a Swiss Army knife to use in the run game.
Heading into year two, the sky is the limit for Loveland. As Nguyen said, "With more experience and Williams entering his second year in Ben Johnson’s offense, Loveland could well be the most productive receiving tight end in the league and be even better as a blocker."
Read more: Bears' worst-case scenario on offense in 2026 would revive 2024 nightmare
Loveland could quickly become one of the best tight ends in football. The league is about to find out what Bears fans already know about their young tight end.
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