LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) – Playing college football at Michigan over the past three seasons, tight end Colston Loveland grew familiar with new Bears head coach Ben Johnson’s scheme as Johnson was the Lions’ offensive coordinator from 2022-’24.
Loveland was intrigued by Johnson’s offense, and it gave them a conversation topic during their meeting at Michigan’s pro day. It’s also a big reason why Loveland was thrilled to be selected by the Bears with the 10th overall pick in the first round of the NFL Draft on Thursday evening.
“Just love the guy,” Loveland said of Johnson. “Before I even met him, just watching Detroit last year, the things they were doing — man, really smart, knows what he’s doing, knows football.
“I’m the No. 1 fan of that guy, for sure. He’s legit. He’s a stud. I can’t wait to be on to that. I know he’s going to put us in a great position, put Chicago in great position to win games. I’m super excited for it.
“Coach Johnson’s like, ‘Yeah, you remind me a lot of (Lions tight end Sam LaPorta). We can do a lot of things – obviously, we did a lot of things with LaPorta.’ And he’s like, ‘Yeah, I can see you doing a lot of those things, as well.’ That was pretty cool to hear.
“Now seeing it all come full circle, I’m excited. I know he’s great, and he's going to do great for Chicago.”
Loveland, 21, was a two-time All-Big Ten selection and a second-team All-American in 2024. He had 56 receptions for 582 yards and five touchdowns last season. He also helped Michigan win the national championship in the 2023 season.
The Bears selected Loveland over Penn State star tight end Tyler Warren, who ended up going to the Colts at No. 14 overall.
Shortly after Loveland was selected, he received a phone call from Bears quarterback Caleb Williams. Bears brass believes that Loveland can fill a key role for the team offensively and be a weapon for Williams.
“He’s that man, and I’m super excited,” Loveland said of Williams. “The arm talent, super smart and just does everything right way from what I can tell, so I’m super excited.
“I’m looking to build that bond, get with him and just help the Bears win.”
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.