The Chicago Bears know they have a long way to go before they start competing for championships. Finding elite talent is the pivotal part of that process. Thus far, GM Ryan Poles hasn't quite gotten there. He's certainly added an array of good players. However, none of them have emerged as some of the NFL's best. It is hoped that starts changing. Each of the past three years saw them utilize four picks in the top 10. Darnell Wright is already becoming a good player at right tackle. Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze showed flashes last season. Perhaps the most intriguing is the latest arrival, Colston Loveland.
Many see the rookie from Michigan as the latest in that new wave of tight ends: tall, athletic, fast, and savvy route-runners. We've already seen what guys like Greg Olsen, Travis Kelce, and George Kittle have done. Brock Bowers figures to join that club pretty soon. Loveland has the same skill set. Yet what may set him apart from others is his competitiveness. He was known for being a big-game player in college, and doesn't seem to lack confidence. That was made clear when he admitted on Up & Adams that he's already talking trash with members of the Minnesota Vikings ahead of the opener in September.
Colston Loveland is not about to let anything slide.
Remember, this is somebody accustomed to winning. It was a big reason why the Bears drafted him. Loveland had both personal and team success with Michigan. Those are the types of players they want on their roster. The only question for Colston Loveland is whether he'll be healthy when the Vikings visit for Monday Night Football. All signs point to his injured shoulder being fully recovered. Answers should arrive next week when players report for training camp. Head coach Ben Johnson has big plans for Loveland. Undoubtedly, he could fill the void Sam LaPorta did in Detroit, and the 10th overall pick is even more talented. That is why excitement is brimming for this season.
