Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Jeff Risdon

Michigan TE Colston Loveland put on a scouting show in win over Fresno State

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:

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…

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.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.