ESPN ranks Bears’ 2025 rookies among NFL’s most impressive young stars

ESPN ranks Colston Loveland inside top-10 rookies

Loveland checked in at No. 9 on ESPN’s top rookies of 2025.

“After a slow start to his rookie campaign, Loveland has quickly become one of the best young tight ends in the league,” ESPN’s Jordan Reid wrote. “In coach Ben Johnson’s offense — one prone to use multiple-tight-end sets — Loveland has been a security blanket for quarterback Caleb Williams. Loveland’s most impressive trait has been his ability to gain yards after the catch, as he averages 2.5 yards after contact per reception (second among all tight ends).”

This is a follow-up ranking to what ESPN initially published in Week 6. Back then, Loveland didn’t make the cut.

What a grab by Colston Loveland pic.twitter.com/NbuV3ctXff

— Depressed Bears Fan (@DepBearsFan) November 28, 2025

That’s all changed now that Colston Loveland is on a bit of a heater.

Loveland enters Week 14 with 31 catches for 406 yards and three touchdowns, all of which have come over the last five games. He also owns the Bears’ third-highest Pro Football Focus grade on offense (75.6).

MORE: Dane Brugler 2026 NFL Mock Draft fills massive need for Bears in first round

While Indianapolis Colts rookie Tyler Warren certainly got off to a faster start than Loveland, it’s the former Michigan standout who is now trending as the NFL’s top rookie tight end.

Loveland was also ESPN’s pick as the rookie who could make the biggest impact in the 2025 NFL playoffs.

“The rookie tight end can work the middle of the field on seams and in-breakers, plus Johnson will isolate Loveland in the red zone,” ESPN’s Matt Bowen wrote. “This allows Loveland to use his foot quickness and frame to beat man coverage, which will be extremely important in the postseason.”

Indeed, Loveland deserves all his flowers, but Monangai has been a stud, too. He received a top-15 rookie vote from ESPN’s group of panelists.

What a time to be a Chicago Bears fan. A first-round pick that’s actually worked out for a squad that’s competing for a high seed in the NFC playoffs.

Yep, these are the Ben Johnson Bears.

Pages: 1 2