There are few players facing as lofty expectations on the Chicago Bears roster as Colston Loveland. The talented tight end peaked at the perfect moment, making big plays down the stretch of the season and into the playoffs. It was easy to form the argument that Loveland was becoming Caleb Williams most trusted target. Adding to this argument is a recent report from NFL pundit and former player Clay Harbor, who reported, "Caleb said he thinks he has the ability to become the best TE in the NFL. "
Considering the talent throughout the league at the position in Brock Bowers, Trey McBride, George Kittle, and Travis Kelce, this is an undeniably bold prediction. One that it would have been better left unsaid, as Loveland is already facing an incredible level of pressure. Pressure that has been turned up by his quarterback in an effort to build up his target.
The reason for such high expectations was having such a profound impact as a rookie while fighting for targets with Cole Kmet, Rome Odunze, Luther Burden, and DJ Moore is incredibly telling. Loveland being able to step in and produce with this competition speaks volumes and makes it clear why Williams believes the pass catcher can put himself in the conversation as the best in the league, while it is clear it was better left unsaid.
Bears Clearly Building Expectations for Standout Tight End Colston Loveland
Loveland's rookie season, the tight end had 713 receiving yards and six touchdowns. This is an elite rookie season for the position, but it is clearly just scratching the surface of what the pass catcher could become. It is an undeniably bold take for Williams to already be putting Loveland in the conversation as the league's best tight end. The timing is off, and it is an extremely rare misstep for a quarterback who always says the right thing.
This is where it is important to note that the quarterback isn't saying Loveland is anywhere close to this level currently. The quarterback chooses his words carefully, and Williams is pointing to the pass catcher as a clear option as the league's best in the coming seasons, making it clear he believes Loveland has this skill set.
Whether or not this is accurate can be debated, but what is undeniable is the fact that Loveland has another level to be reached. This was shown in the short playoff run and towards the end of the season as the tight end began to grow momentum. No question, the season ahead is one that gives Loveland a chance to begin to live up to the pressure that Williams dialed up with a comment that, while well intended, wasn't needed.
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