Coaches within the Big Ten conference discuss and assess Colston Loveland compared to the selection of Tyler Warren by the Bears
The Bears still got some work to do, and a running back’s addition is on the list. But their draft pick at tight end, Colston Loveland, caught the eye of a former coach. The Big Ten coaches chatted up the Bears’ choice of Loveland over Tyler Warren in the 2025 NFL Draft, too.
Chicago took Loveland at No. 10, leaving Warren to land with the Colts at No. 14. Many analysts had Warren as the top tight end pick, but what’s the deal with Loveland?
ESPN believes Loveland might fit like a glove for the Bears, similar to Sam LaPorta. They reckon Loveland can play in-line and offer plus-level run-blocking, with versatility in the passing game. That ticks all the boxes for the Bears’ offense.
The passing game for Loveland’s college team ranked 130th nationwide in 2024, leaving some room for improvement. A Big Ten defensive coordinator thought Loveland was special, but he's more of a receiving tight end. On the other hand, Tyler Warren could do it all, shining as a hard-nosed, physical blocker with solid receipt abilities.
Ryan Poles, the Bears’ general manager, saw something different in Loveland, though. He noticed that Loveland can consistently contribute to their team in various ways, praising his route-running and blocking ability. However, if Loveland can’t block well, he may find himself on the sidelines compared to Warren.
But here’s the catch: The Bears believe Loveland can block. Whether that assumption holds true will shape the success of their decision to pick Loveland over Warren. In the end, the Bears' tight end pick comes down to whether they’re correct about Loveland's blocking potential.
- The Bears seem to have high expectations for their draft pick, Colston Loveland, believing he can block effectively despite some doubts from analysts.
- The Bears are planning to integrate Loveland's skillset in their offense, expecting him to offer both run-blocking and versatility in the passing game, similar to Sam LaPorta.
- Unlike Loveland, former draft pick Tyler Warren, now with the Colts, was known for his hard-nosed physical blocking and solid reception abilities, making him a well-rounded tight end.
- In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Bears chose Loveland over Warren, a decision that has sparked rumors and discussions among Big Ten coaches and sports analysts.
- The success of the Chicago Bears' championship aspirations may heavily depend on whether Loveland's supposed blocking abilities materialize, as the team's offense could greatly benefit from a player with his projected skillset.
