The Chicago Bears have continued to earn a heavy level of criticism for drafting tight-end Colston Loveland. While it is incredibly early in the rookie's career, there is no denying that the comparison hasn't been kind to the pass catcher. Making matters worse is the fact that Loveland is now dealing with a Week 4 injury showing up as a DNP on the latest practice report with a hip injury. As great as fans might be feeling after a blowout win over Dallas, there is still an understandable level of angst when it comes to Loveland.
Much of this is set up by the fact that there has been so little offensive production through three games. Offering only 3 catches for a combined 43 yards is far from ideal. This is especially the case when fellow rookie Tyler Warren was selected below you and has already hauled in 14 catches for 193 yards on the season. While it is important to note that it is incredibly early in the season, there is no denying that a level of frustration is more than fair with what appears to be a draft miss.
Bears Tight-End Colston Loveland Continues to Face Frustrations Showing up on Week 4 Injury Report
Loveland still has plenty of time to close the gap and quiet early doubts that have surfaced. However, in a league that increasingly demands instant production from every position, there hasn't been the expected impact. Starting out this week on the injury report is hardly an encouraging sign that things are likely going to change anytime soon.
With that said, it is worth pointing out that head coach Ben Johnson is just starting to get comfortable in his new role. Sunday's win over the Cowboys saw what appeared to be a breakout moment for fellow rookie pass catcher Luther Burden. This was after two weeks of questioning whether or not the receiver was going to prove to be a bust. In a microwave society, it is a piece of the game that has regressed when it comes to patience with top prospects.
Even with this said, there is still no excuse for the paltry production we've seen from Loveland thus far. It doesn't mean things can't turn around or that Warren is unquestionably going to end his career as the better tight end. Rather, it is taking a step back and rationally pointing out that this hasn't been anywhere close to expectations. Adding an early-season injury to the mix only furthers already boiling frustrations.