Michigan tight end Colston Loveland had some definite preseason hype as one of the top 2025 NFL Draft prospects at his position. After his shining performance in the Wolverines’ 30-10 opening win over a game Fresno State team, Loveland proved he’s worthy of the draftnik love.
As the only returning starter for the reigning national champs on offense, Loveland carried some burden of leadership into the Wolverines opener. No. 18 wore that well on Saturday night. Despite uneven quarterback play and an effectively aggressive Bulldogs defense, Loveland looked like the best offensive player on the field for either team.
Loveland impressed in every phase of the game, and did so while lining up all over the formation. He split between left and right, inline and slot, even taking 10 snaps as an X-receiver. The 6-foot-5 Loveland led Michigan with eight receptions for 87 yards, catching all but one target thrown his way.
Loveland effectively iced the game for the Wolverines with a great route and instant transition from receiver to runner in his only touchdown:
Colston Loveland just makes things happen.
The star TE puts No. 9 @UMichFootball up two scores.#B1GFootball on NBC 📺 pic.twitter.com/Pk4I7ohrNw
— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) September 1, 2024
The route running featured mostly sharp footwork, but where Loveland thrives is at changing speeds and shifting gears quickly. It’s visible on the touchdown against Fresno State, and it’s an important way for a longer receiver with a big stride to create some separation. This is not easy to do, folks…
#Michigan TE Colston Loveland lined up all over the place as usual Saturday night.
Made plays all over the place, per usual. pic.twitter.com/tHaDtOyBh6
— Nick Baumgardner (@nickbaumgardner) September 1, 2024
During the week, I had a chance to talk with longtime Michigan football broadcaster Jim Brandstatter. He expressed some lack of confidence in the physicality of Loveland’s blocking. Any worries there were quickly erased in the opener. Loveland had two very effective seal blocks in the slot to help spring running lanes. He’s not a people-mover of a blocker, but Loveland’s hand placement and quick foot frequency while engaged were both much-improved from what we saw a year ago.
Overall, a very strong debut from Loveland, who figures to get more first-round love in upcoming mock draft projections for the 2025 NFL Draft.
