It’s been a few weeks since the NFL draft. In that time, it became clear that many experts were somewhat surprised that the Chicago Bears opted to select Colston Loveland 10th overall. There were multiple reasons for this. First was the presence of Cole Kmet. The veteran has been a productive player at tight end over the past two years. Does this mean the new coaching staff isn’t fond of him? Next, many had Tyler Warren of Penn State as the top tight end in the class. Taking Loveland over him felt like a reach to some.
Last but not least was the simple fact that tight end isn’t a premium position. The Bears could’ve gone with a left tackle or an edge rusher. This felt like a departure from GM Ryan Poles’ normal approach. What happened? A source informed SM that the explanation is simple. It had nothing to do with Kmet or anything else. Head coach Ben Johnson felt his talent was impossible to pass on.
“Ben just believes he will be a star.”
When you compare to Greg Olsen and Sam LaPorta, it is easy to see why one would think that. Chicago needs star power, no matter where it comes from.
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Colston Loveland offers something rare.
Most productive tight ends fall into the same category: big, strong, good hands, and athletic enough to make plays over the middle. Then there are the select few who play the position like a wide receiver. They have the speed and route-running prowess to create separation while still boasting a large 6’6 frame. Travis Kelce, George Kittle, Jimmy Graham, and Tony Gonzalez are such examples. It doesn’t matter who you line up against them; it’s still a mismatch. Too fast for linebackers. Too big for cornerbacks and safeties. Johnson, being the offensive wizard he is, recognized the value immediately. Chicago needs a threat like that if they’re going to take the next step. Poles acquiesced to his wishes.
