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Colston Loveland, a dynamic TE for the Michigan Wolverines, has quickly risen to greatness in the college football world. Born on April 9, 2004, in Gooding, Idaho, Colston’s journey from a small-town athlete to a key player at Michigan highlights his commitment and talent.

Growing up in a ranching family, Colston spent much of his childhood herding cattle and sheep and riding horses across their family’s land. This rural upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and flexibility, traits that have significantly contributed to his success on the football field.

Background of Colston Loveland’s family

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Colston Loveland’s parents, Chad Loveland and Rachel Faulkner, have been integral to his journey from Gooding, Idaho, to becoming a standout athlete at the University of Michigan. Rachel Faulkner, Colston’s mother, has been particularly vocal about the family’s journey and the decisions leading to Colston’s commitment to Michigan.

In an interview with 247Sports, Rachel states “The entire coaching staff was welcoming, accommodating and genuine. They made us feel like Colston would be in good hands there and not just as an athlete, but as a student as well.” She expressed her confidence in the Michigan coaching staff, especially tight ends coach Jay Harbaugh, who played a crucial role in Colston’s recruitment. Furthermore, she stressed the fact that Ann Arbor is safe and has a rich history, which makes it a perfect place for her son to learn as a student and excel as an athlete.

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Chad Loveland, Colston’s father, has been a main and present character in the boy’s life. Chad does not use social media a lot, but he has shared his experiences and values with Colston that assist him in sports and life. The Michigan TE carries himself on the football field, which is evidence of the contributions made by both parents.

Influence on career

Colston featured in all 14 games during his freshman year in 2022, although he started only five of them. This season he could make 16 receptions for 235 yards and 2 touchdowns and this showed that he was also valuable in the offense and in the special team as well. His first career touchdown was a 45-yard catch against Ohio State and his second touchdown was in the Big Ten Championship against Purdue. In addition, he won the award for the Offensive and Co-Special Teams Rookie of the Year for his performances.

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By 2023, he contributed significantly to the Wolverine’s offense, showcasing reliable hands and strategic use of his extremities. He was most effective in the season when he made 64 yards in the CFP National Championship Game against Washington and other vital receptions of the season.

Loveland has also received positive comments on his improvement and prospects from Jim Harbaugh, the head coach of the Michigan team, and Jay Harbaugh, the tight ends coach of the same team. Another former Wolverine, the current tight end for the Denver Broncos and the analyst for the Big Ten Network, Jake Butt has also stood up for Loveland and said that he could be the best tight end in the history of the University of Michigan as cited in Michigan Daily. Butt pointed out that Loveland was a big-play player and his show in games against Ohio State and the Big Ten Championship games.