Chicago Bears: Colston Loveland predicted to be the best NFL TE in 2026

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Chicago Bears: Colston Loveland predicted to be the best NFL TE in 2026

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated May 30, 2026 8:24 PM ET

The Chicago Bears selected Colston Loveland at No. 10 last year. His addition provided the team with more depth at tight end, along with Cole Kmet. The 22-year-old rose as one of the best rookies in 2025.

He had a strong three-year run with the Michigan Wolverines. Loveland won the national championship and earned first-team All-Big Ten honors in 2023. He followed it up with second-team All-American honors the following year.

Loveland’s collegiate success translated to the NFL, proving that he could become Chicago’s cornerstone at the position. His 6-foot-6, 241-pound frame posed a tough challenge for opposing defenses, helping him achieve impressive numbers. The Goldendale, Washington native recorded 58 receptions for 713 yards and six touchdowns in 16 games, including 11 starts.

Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) walks off the field during halftime of the game against the Cleveland Browns.

PFF analyst shares projection for Chicago Bears TE Colston Loveland

Loveland’s emergence as a rising star caught the attention of those outside of Chicago. Pro Football Focus’s Bradley Locker released his list of players who he believes will become All-Pros in 2026. He highlighted the Bears’ young offensive core and predicted what the second-year tight end’s role next season will be.

“On an offense full of young — and somewhat unproven — playmakers, Chicago will assuredly continue to funnel the ball through the game-changing Loveland this season,” Locker wrote on Thursday. “With Travis Kelce declining of late and George Kittle’s status uncertain after suffering a torn Achilles in the playoffs, Loveland should be firmly in the All-Pro mix alongside Trey McBride and Brock Bowers.”

Loveland carved out a bigger role from Week 9 onwards and received an 86.9 PFF receiving grade. It was the second-highest among tight ends over that span. He became one of Caleb Williams’ favorite targets and delivered 34 first downs. The sky is the limit for Loveland’s career, and even more eyes will focus on him starting in Week 1.

If he lives up to the hype, Loveland could very well establish himself as an All-Pro in 2026, officially making him the best tight end in the league.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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