The Chicago Bears bolstered their passing attack by selecting tight end Colston Loveland with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. While it may not have been the pick fans expected, Loveland will still be a major target for quarterback Caleb Williams throughout the 2025 campaign.
As Ben Johnson steps into his new role as head coach, his main goal will be helping Williams reach his No. 1 overall pick ceiling. No matter who Chicago took at No. 10, it’d be a moot point if their quarterback doesn’t show massive growth. However, Loveland is expected to amplify Williams’ passing options and overall make the Bears more versatile on offense.
It didn’t take long for quarterback and tight end to begin building their connection. Before the glow has even faded of Loveland being drafted, the tight end confirmed that Williams had already contacted him, via Adam Jahns of The Athletic.
New Bears TE Colston Loveland said that he's already received a call from QB Caleb Williams.
— Adam Jahns (@adamjahns) April 25, 2025
Loveland had nothing but praise for Williams, nothing he admired watching him play college football, via Zach Pearson of BearReport.
“Stud. Loved watching his game throughout college,” Loveland said. “He’s that man.”
Colston Loveland on Caleb Williams:
"Stud. Love watching his game throughout college. He's that man."#Bears
— Zack Pearson (@Zack_Pearson) April 25, 2025
The Bears already have Cole Kmet on the roster, but Johnson was known for running plenty of two-tight end personnel with the Detroit Lions. It’s clear that the head coach envisions a roster where both tight ends succeed. Furthermore, the fact Loveland was the pick over Warren shows Johnson feels the former Michigan Wolverine is a better fit in the offense.
Loveland appeared in 39 games over his three years at Michigan, catching 117 passes for 1,466 yards and 11 touchdowns. He won a national championship in 2023 before ending his time with the Wolverines by earning Second-team All-American nods after setting new career-highs in receptions (56) and touchdown grabs (five).
The tight end is much more athletic than others at the position. His speed and tenacity allows Loveland to gain extra yardage in the middle of the field or make plays in open space. Overall, the addition of Loveland is expected to add another explosive element to Chicago’s offense.
Hiring Johnson was the first step, but the Bears knew they needed to make numerous changes to their offensive gameplan entering 2025. They ended their 2024 season ranked dead last in total offense, averaging 284.6 yards per game. Their passing attack ranked second-to-last, averaging 181.5 YPG.
Loveland will certainly need to prove himself, especially after being selected with Warren still on the board. But the Bears wanted more firepower on their offense, and Johnson found it in Loveland. Williams can’t wait to get to work with his new pass catcher.
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