The exact phrase Ben Johnson used on draft night was: “We’re cooking with hot grease now.”

The Chicago Bears coach was on the phone with Colston Loveland, whom the team was about to select with the No. 10 pick.

“You’re exactly what we’re looking for,” Johnson told Loveland.

Four months later, the Bears are about to debut Johnson’s offense in Monday night’s season opener against the Minnesota Vikings. In three years as the offensive coordinator in Detroit, Johnson worked wonders, building the Lions offense into a juggernaut. The tight end position was a big part of that success.

Now, as Johnson embarks on his first season in Chicago, the tight end position appears to be a big part of his plans. Look no further than his first draft pick.

The Bears can pair Loveland with returning vetera

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