Still, Loveland towers over his competition at 6-foot-5, 245 pounds. He’s since made the leap to the Chicago Bears, after a high-profile college career at the University of Michigan. He was a finalist for the Outland Trophy and was drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft. This comes as the fourth straight offensive player chosen by General Manager Ryan Poles in this round. Loveland’s journey to this significant moment included a recent trip to his aunt and uncle’s farm in southern Idaho for an annual cattle branding event, where he celebrated the draft with about 150 family members and friends.
Loveland is taking the thrilling jump to the pros. This news comes just 10 days after his surgery to repair an AC joint in his right shoulder. The surgery was done just three months before the draft, and it cast serious doubt on his readiness for training camp. Still, Bears management has hope that this surgery will not impact his play nor his recovery going forward.
Last year, his final season in college, Loveland proved to be one of the most dynamic pass-catching tight ends in the nation. He caught 56 passes and snared five touchdowns in the 2023 national championship game. He added a leadership role, as he topped the Wolverines receiving yards that game. In 2024, he opened eyes with his route creation, being targeted on 41% of his routes run. That amazing number logged him in as the highest FBS tight end in targeting rate.
Vikings fans voiced their approval of Loveland’s potential to make an immediate difference on the team, citing his versatility and his maturity. “All of the things we are trying to build here, he encompasses that as a person,” said Jeff King, reinforcing Loveland’s fit within the organization.
Loveland’s blocking has garnered attention. Poles went on to stress that Loveland’s expertise here goes far beyond the public’s understanding. They imply that his impact goes way beyond his production as a receiver. Head coach Ben Johnson considers Loveland to be the key to unlocking the Bears’ offensive potential. He remarked on Loveland’s similarities to fellow tight end Sam LaPorta, saying, “I do see a lot of comparisons to LaPorta… the stage was never too big or too bright.”
Loveland’s poise and success didn’t escape the attention of his former coaches. Nick Saban called him “the best receiver of all the tight ends in the draft,” highlighting Loveland’s exceptional capabilities. This approval makes for high hopes imposed on him as he prepares to make the jump into the professional ranks.
As Loveland finishes celebrating this milestone, he looks back on how he’s grown and the artists that have inspired him. He shared his admiration for tight ends like LaPorta, which speaks to his dedication to learning from other successful players in his position.
“Have you ever put up wire fence in Idaho before?” – Poles
Poles’ question sheds light on Loveland’s upbringing. It’s that past which uncovers the values of hard work, family traditions, and opportunity that were ingrained in him. Loveland puts out some pretty elite physical talent, too. In addition, he exemplifies high character and unparalleled work ethic.
Loveland’s knack for making plays when it counts has impressed teammates and coaches of the first-year professional. Moore remarked on a notable moment during practice, stating, “The thing that stood out the most: not only did he leave the defender in the dust, but shushing the crowd right after.” This kind of calmness under pressure is the exact quality needed in a player walking into an environment as high-stakes as the NFL.
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