The Chicago Bears have had a productive offseason, revamping the offensive line and hiring former Detroit Lions OC Ben Johnson because the staff’s new head coach.
Coming into the draft, offensive deal with and edge rusher have been arguably the highest areas to deal with, nonetheless, Chicago utilized its first-round decide on a skill-position participant, drafting Michigan tight finish Colston Loveland.
In 2024, the 6-foot-5, 245-pounder caught 56 passes for 582 yards and 5 touchdowns regardless of Michigan’s horrific quarterback play.
The decide was considerably shocking, as Penn State tight finish Tyler Warren was nonetheless on the board. Loveland, nonetheless, is taller and a extra fluid athlete, which can have been the deciding issue between the 2 prospects.
Nonetheless, Caleb Williams has no excuse to wrestle this season with a brand new play-caller, upgraded safety and an abundance of expertise at his disposal.
Johnson has expertise creating rookie tight ends, as he coached Sam LaPorta, who was a 2023 second-round decide for Detroit. In his rookie season, LaPorta caught 86 receptions for 889 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Though Loveland will not be the run blocker that LaPorta is, he’s a easy route runner who can dominate within the center components of the sector.
Alongside WRs Rome Odunze and DJ Moore and fellow TE Cole Kmet, Loveland can have ample alternatives to supply and contribute in his rookie marketing campaign.
Chicago has two picks within the second spherical (Nos. 39 and 41) and will deal with the offensive deal with and edge rusher wants there.
This will not have been the choice Bears followers wished, however including one other offensive weapon doesn’t damage, as Williams’ growth and development are paramount in his second 12 months because the staff’s beginning quarterback.
