Best it’s felt: Loveland optimistic about having no shoulder restrictions heading into training camp
Introduction to Loveland’s Offseason
The Chicago Bears’ first-round draft pick, Colston Loveland, has been keeping busy during his offseason. On Tuesday, he spent his afternoon catching passes from patients and families of Lurie Children’s Hospital as he tubed down the lazy river at Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee. For every pass the rookie tight end caught, the waterpark donated $250 to Lurie Children’s Hospital, totaling $7,500 by the time the footballs stopped flying.
Community Involvement and Personal Growth
Loveland expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, "It was a lot of fun, seeing kids smile. It was my first time at a water park in eight years. It was a good time." This excursion not only brought joy to the patients but also showcased Loveland’s commitment to giving back to the community. Despite the fun outing, Loveland’s offseason has been anything but lazy. He has been rehabbing from shoulder surgery while working to learn his first NFL playbook.
Rehabilitation Progress
When it comes to his surgically-repaired shoulder, Loveland told WGN-TV’s Josh Frydman "it feels good, really good. [The] best it’s felt." He also mentioned that "the strength is there. The scar tissue’s barely there anymore, so … Everything is increasing. It’s good." Loveland’s progress is a positive sign for the Bears, and he is optimistic about having no restrictions heading into training camp.
Training Camp Expectations
Loveland stated that, "Talking to PT and everyone, I’m on a good track. Just doing what I can do everyday to get better." With his rehabilitation on schedule, Loveland is excited to play under new head coach Ben Johnson for a team where everyone feels "like-minded and everyone’s chasing the same goal." He praised Coach Johnson, saying, "He’s just super intense and so locked in. He’s in there working out all the time, like working out too. He’s always in the building, super smart in the meeting room. On the field, I like everything he does. He’s a great coach, and that goes for all the coaches as well."
Upcoming Training Camp
Loveland and the rest of the Bears’ rookie class are set to report for training camp Saturday, July 19, while the rest of the roster will report by Tuesday, July 22. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, Loveland is looking forward to continuing to build his relationships with his teammates and coaches. He expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "I’m just looking forward to continuing to build that relationship with everyone and go win games."
Under-the-Radar Storylines
As training camp approaches, there are several under-the-radar storylines to watch for the Chicago Bears. These storylines may not be getting the most attention, but they have the potential to make a significant impact on the team’s performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Colston Loveland’s offseason has been marked by rehabilitation, community involvement, and personal growth. With his shoulder feeling the best it has, Loveland is optimistic about having no restrictions heading into training camp. As the Bears prepare for the upcoming season, Loveland’s progress and enthusiasm are positive signs for the team.
FAQs
Q: When does the Bears’ rookie class report for training camp?
A: The Bears’ rookie class, including Colston Loveland, is set to report for training camp on Saturday, July 19.
Q: How much money was donated to Lurie Children’s Hospital during Loveland’s event at Great Wolf Lodge?
A: The waterpark donated $250 for every pass caught by Loveland, totaling $7,500 by the end of the event.
Q: What is Loveland’s expectation for his shoulder heading into training camp?
A: Loveland is optimistic about having no restrictions on his shoulder heading into training camp, stating that it feels the best it has.
