The Chicago Bears are in a situation where they have everything they need offensively to be dominant in 2025. Their first-round pick, tight end Colston Loveland, could end up playing a bigger factor in that than some might expect.
Bleacher Report writer Kristopher Knox had Loveland as his one X-factor for the Bears in 2025. Knox believes Loveland can not only help them on the field, but could make a front office decision easier.
"The Chicago Bears are hoping new head coach Ben Johnson can get more out of Caleb Williams—and his ability to turn the 2024 first overall pick into an above-average quarterback will determine how successful Chicago can be this season.
However, Johnson and Williams are unlikely to find success without a strong supporting cast, which is one reason why rookie tight end Colston Loveland looms as an X-factor.
The Michigan product has the potential to have a rookie impact not unlike Brock Bowers in 2024. He can be the sort of go-to pass-catcher that elevates Williams on a weekly basis.
Another reason why Loveland is an X-factor is that he could make fellow tight end Cole Kmet expendable.
Kmet has three years left on a four-year, $50 million contract, but he could become a trade chip at the deadline if Loveland shines early."
Could Loveland end up being Williams' favorite target and push the Bears to trade Kmet?
One narrative that needs to be addressed is the growing hype surrounding media outlets' desire for the Bears to trade Kmet away. Johnson loves running his two-tight end sets, so why would it make sense to get rid of one good tight end? Having Kmet and Loveland on the field at the same time gives Williams more blockers in pass protection, but two dangerous offensive weapons as well.
Bears fans got a small taste of what life with Loveland is going to be like in the team's 24-24 tie with the Miami Dolphins in Sunday's preseason game. Loveland had two targets and caught one for eight yards. Although the sample size is small, it's good to see him make a play.
There's no doubt that everyone in the Chicago media has seen the potential in Loveland. Throughout Bears training camp, there has been a ton of buzz surrounding Loveland and the way he has played.
If Williams can find a way to get his tight ends more involved in the passing game, Loveland can definitely play a big factor. He's only going to be as good if he has Kmet on the opposite side of the line, attracting attention away from him.
Chicago would be wise to have Loveland and Kmet together this year. The Bears could look to move on from Kmet after the season and find a replacement for him in the offseason.
Read more: ESPN's latest team rankings show Bears with an uncertain future after 2025
Even if the conversation is not ideal for moving on from Kmet, it does show the kind of impact Loveland can have and how well he could perform in his rookie season.