Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams and tight end Colston Loveland developed a strong connection through their first season as teammates in 2025.

Loveland closed out the regular season with back-to-back 90-yard, one-touchdown performances. And in the Bears' wild card victory over the arch-rival Green Bay Packers, he reeled in eight catches for a career-high 137 yards.

Now, Williams and Loveland are heading into the 2026 NFL season with a full season of experience under their belts.

When speaking to reporters in a recent press conference, Williams said Loveland has what it takes to be the best tight end in the league.

"He can become the best tight end in the league. I think he is," Williams said. "But stats, and us going out there and proving it, is what it's going to take. To be able to do that, we've got to put in work. We’ve got to build a connection, hang out inside and outside the building, have tough conversations or have open communication throughout the year and throughout camp.

"So it’s going to be exciting. It’s going to be fun. He’s an easy target to throw to, and I’ve got a bunch of those guys out there that are equipped and ready to go.”

The Bears will open up their 2026 regular-season schedule with a Week 1 matchup against the Carolina Panthers on Sept. 13.