Chicago Bears fans are gearing up with high hopes for the team starting next month. The big reason? Coach Ben Johnson and his knack for running a high-powered offense. Fans are excited and hopeful that this style of play will bring some serious rewards on the field.
The players are quickly adjusting to Johnson’s high demands, and every position is pushing to be the best. Surprisingly, a veteran and a rookie have formed a camaraderie that might catch many off guard: tight ends Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland.
Back in April, plenty of people raised eyebrows when the Bears picked Loveland 10th overall in the draft. Many assumed the rookie would have to compete with Kmet for a spot on the team. But that’s not how it’s playing out. Both are set to have important roles on the field at the same time.
On Thursday, ESPN’s Courtney Cronin shared that the TEs will be a key piece of the Bears’ offensive puzzle, and everyone got a glimpse of that during Chicago’s 38-0 preseason win over the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. Quarterback Caleb Williams targeted Loveland and Kmet on the first two plays.
Loveland, the top tight end taken in the 2025 draft, is already impressing in varied roles from in-line to slot receiver. He said, “That’s a great thing about this offense. You can be anywhere, receiver, tight end, running back. Being able to learn the whole offense and be put in positions maybe you weren’t put in, that’s a blessing for sure.”
Ben Johnson’s system is built to exploit flexibility, and Loveland and Kmet’s bond has been a standout. Tight ends coach Jim Dray said,
“I’ve never seen a level of camaraderie and brotherhood before in a tight end room.”
There may be some concerns about balancing production among multiple pass catchers, but this is Johnson’s team. With his high-powered offense, anyone has the chance to shine. It might not happen for everyone every game, but when the offense lights up and starts clicking, every player will have their moment in the spotlight.
Fans might see both Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland putting up great numbers in 2025.
