In a time when top college football recruits are increasingly choosing to skip games to safeguard their NFL prospects, Michigan tight end Colston Loveland is taking a different approach, even during a challenging season for the prestigious program. The risk of a serious injury is a significant concern in Ann Arbor, especially with the cautionary tale of Jake Butt, whose ACL tear in the 2017 Capital One Orange Bowl dropped him from a projected first-round NFL pick to a fifth-round selection. Despite this, Loveland, who has recorded 42 catches for 528 yards and four touchdowns this season, emphasizes his commitment to the team.
As long as we’re healthy and feeling good, we’re going to play… Michigan has done a lot for us – our teammates, our coaches, they’re all still here working hard. So why wouldn’t we play? We have goals to achieve as a team and individually, so as long as I’m healthy, I’ll be out there.”
The Wolverines (5-5) are experiencing one of their toughest seasons in recent history, yet potential first-round draft picks like Colston Loveland, Will Johnson, Mason Graham, and Kenneth Grant are dedicated to seeing it through. Their choice contrasts sharply with a growing trend of top prospects opting out of not only bowl games but also College Football Playoff appearances and regular season games. Loveland, while resolute, admits that the decision is complex: “I can understand both sides, especially if you’ve had an injury… But for me and many of my teammates, if you’re healthy and able to play, we love the game of football.
We’ve been blessed to play this sport, and our families make so many sacrifices. So why wouldn’t we play? That’s how I feel.” While Loveland is committed to participating in the regular season, he mentioned that his involvement in a potential bowl game—if Michigan qualifies—remains uncertain. In a sport increasingly focused on individual risk management, Michigan’s star is making a calculated choice, believing that team loyalty and competitive spirit still matter more than the financial incentives of self-preservation.
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