Is Colston Loveland heading to the NFL draft?

Colston Loveland, who has quickly become a cornerstone of the Wolverines’s offense, has kept their hopes alive despite Michigan football having faced some hurdles this season. In a year where the team's passing attack has been inconsistent, Loveland has provided stability, leading from the front in receptions (19), receiving yards (187) and contributing one touchdown in the first three games.

The Michigan star’s emergence highlights the growing importance of tight ends in modern football. With the NFL Draft looming in April 2025, Loveland has already attracted some attention as a potential third-round pick.

However, unlike many players projected to go high in the draft, Colston Loveland has pledged to finish the season with the Michigan Wolverines.

Is Loveland heading to the NFL draft or is he choosing ‘loyalty’ over self-preservation?

The trend of college stars sitting out late-season games to avoid injuries or to prepare for the draft has grown in recent years. Loveland, however, remains resolute in his commitment to the Wolverines.

“I mean, we’re gonna play, as long as we’re healthy and feel good, we’re gonna play,” Loveland said. “Michigan’s done so much for us — all of our boys, our brothers, our family, our coaches, they’re all still coaching and playing. So why wouldn’t we play? We have goals to reach as a team and individually as well. So as long as I’m healthy, I’m playing.”

This decision reflects a larger mindset among Michigan’s juniors, many of whom — like defensive tackle Kenneth Grant - are also considered top prospects in the upcoming draft. This unity underlines their collective dedication to finishing the season strong.

Michigan fans still recall the story of former tight end Jake Butt, whose draft stock plummeted after a devastating ACL injury in the 2017 Orange Bowl.

Colston Loveland: The ideal NFL Tight End every team wants

Colston Loveland in action for Michigan Wolverines (Credits: IMAGN)

At 6-foot-5 and 245 pounds, Colston Loveland possesses a rare combination of size, athleticism, and versatility. His ability to separate from defenders with quick, precise route running sets him apart, drawing comparisons to NFL standout Jalen Sanders. Loveland’s strong hands and exceptional catch radius allow him to haul in passes from challenging angles, making him a red-zone threat.

Hailing from Gooding, Idaho, Loveland’s football journey began with record-breaking performances at Gooding High School. A three-time all-state player, he accumulated 3,141 receiving yards and 35 touchdowns during high school. His early promise translated to college football, where he earned accolades like Michigan’s Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2022 and All-Big Ten honors in 2023.

In the 2024 season, Colston Loveland showcased his consistency as a tight end. He recorded 53 receptions, accumulating 560 receiving yards with an average of 10.6 yards per catch. Additionally, he found the end zone four times.

Loveland, a former basketball player, can “high-point” the ball, which echoes his days of grabbing rebounds on the court. His versatility enables him to thrive as an in-line blocker and a moveable tight end, seamlessly transitioning between running and passing plays. NFL coaches will likely find his adaptability invaluable in designing mismatches against defenders.

For Wolverines fans, his commitment to finishing the season is as inspiring as his performances on the field. Whether he declares for the draft or stays another year, Colston Loveland is undoubtedly on track to make a significant impact in the NFL.