How Colston Loveland Transformed from Branding Calves to Chicago Bears’ Must-Have Tight End
Introduction: A Journey from Idaho to the NFL
Lake Forest, Illinois—Old habits can be tough to shake, and for Colston Loveland, that means returning to his roots just days before the 2025 NFL Draft. While many prospects might be focused solely on training, Loveland found himself branding calves at his aunt and uncle’s ranch in Gooding, Idaho, proving that hard work is woven into his very fabric.
H2: From the Fields of Idaho to the NFL Stage
Gooding, with its population of just 3,802, isn’t exactly a hub of hustle and bustle. The nearest airport, Magic Valley Regional Airport, offers only sparse flights. Yet, this small town produced Loveland, the tenth overall pick in the 2025 draft, chosen by the Chicago Bears to be a pivotal part of first-year head coach Ben Johnson’s game plan.
The hard work that shaped Loveland was not just physical; it instilled a relentless mentality that resonated with the Michigan Wolverines and now, the storied Chicago Bears.
H3: The Hardworking Roots of Colston Loveland
Loveland’s journey illustrates the grit often found in individuals from rural backgrounds. As he mused, "When I was home two days before the draft, we branded some calves. I didn’t get too crazy with it." This simple act represents much more than tradition; it encapsulates a lifestyle of diligence and perseverance.
Branding calves may seem straightforward, but it’s a two-person job—one person holds the head while the other brands the animal. The process involves branding, vaccinations, and ear markings—demonstrating that every step requires teamwork and effort.
After the branding was done, Loveland was not finished for the day; instead, he would transition straight to football practice at Gooding High School, showcasing his dual dedication to both family and sport.
H2: Football and Family: A Life of Commitment
Loveland’s time spent on the ranch was more than just hard labor; it was an opportunity to bond with family and friends. However, the challenges were real. "We’d always lay fence down," he shared, recounting his struggles with barbed wire and the uncompromising Idaho winter.
The physical toil of ranch work isn’t just about building muscles; it teaches resilience and the importance of doing your best—two lessons Loveland carried onto the football field.
H3: Rising Through the Ranks
Loveland became a four-star tight end recruit in Idaho, catching the eye of Michigan’s coaching staff, led by Jim Harbaugh, known for his unconventional recruiting methods. Harbaugh famously spent the night at a recruit’s home in 2016—and he made a similar impression during his visit to Loveland.
"He came in at night, stayed the night at my grandparents’ place, and then we were talking," Loveland remembers. "He’s like, ‘What time are we working out tomorrow?’ I was like, ‘Are you working out tomorrow?’” That’s the essence of Harbaugh—his dedication resonated through the ranks of Wolverines and ultimately helped Loveland make the leap to college football stardom.
H2: Making Waves at Michigan
Loveland didn’t take long to acclimate to the high-pressure environment of Michigan football. He made his first impression during his true freshman season, recording two receptions in his debut against Colorado State. But it was his first career touchdown, caught during one of the most intense rivalries in college football against Ohio State, that truly marked his arrival.
With a 45-yard touchdown pass from J.J. McCarthy, Loveland not only scored but also showed off his flair by shushing the hostile crowd—a moment that embodied his resilience and confidence.
H3: A Relentless Work Ethic
Loveland’s intense determination and physicality made him a standout player for Michigan, earning him first-team All-Big Ten honors and a national championship. His journey continued to rise, culminating in him becoming the first-ever draft pick for coach Ben Johnson’s tenure with the Chicago Bears.
"I’m excited to go win games," Loveland expressed, showcasing not just optimism but an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Awaits
Colston Loveland’s incredible journey from branding calves to the NFL serves as a testament to the power of hard work, family, and resilience. As he embarks on this new chapter with the Chicago Bears, fans can expect a player who embodies the spirit of commitment and an unyielding desire to succeed.
For more on NFL trends and stories like Loveland’s, stay tuned to NFL News and follow the Bears as they navigate an exciting new season.
