CHICAGO — May 8, 2024 —
The Chicago Bears are placing thier hopes on tight end Colston Loveland, who has been assigned the number 84. This bold move aims to elevate this number to legendary status within Chicago sports, igniting anticipation among fans. His predecessor, Brian Baschnagel, had a successful stint at the Bears, but it remains to be seen if Loveland will also cement the iconic status of the number. Only time will tell.
Colston Loveland Aims to Make #84 a Chicago Sports Staple
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The Chicago Bears’ newest tight end, Colston Loveland, is donning the number 84, hoping to elevate it to the pantheon of iconic Chicago sports numbers. While some numbers are synonymous with the city’s sporting legends, Loveland aims to add his name to that esteemed list.
The Weight of a Number
While it remains unknown whether Loveland chose the number 84 or if it was assigned to him, one thing is certain: he would not be wearing his college number, 18. that number already belongs to quarterback Caleb Williams.And you don’t usurp a number from a QB1 without a whole lot of money changing hands.
Bears TE Colston Loveland will wear number 84 pic.twitter.com/hsg78Z6ljC
— Dave (@dave_bfr) April 26, 2025
A Look Back: Brian Baschnagel
the number 84 does have a history with the Bears, albeit not a widely celebrated one. The most notable Bear to wear the number was Brian Baschnagel.
- Baschnagel played for the Bears from 1976 to 1984.
- He was a reliable wide receiver known for his sure hands.
- In 129 games, he started 71, accumulating 2,024 receiving yards and nine touchdowns.
- His best year was 1981, with 554 yards and three touchdowns.
Baschnagel, an Ohio State University alumnus, was arguably the Chicago Bears’ most reliable wide receiver between 1976-1984.
He spent his entire career in Chicago.He’ll never get a bust in Canton,but for Bears fans of a certain vintage,well,he’ll always have a place in our hearts.
Brian Baschnagel #Bears #NFL pic.twitter.com/Z1ID4xEuBH
— kelly Hammond (@kellyHammo71824) October 19, 2024
Beyond the gridiron: A Hockey Connection
The number 84 has also appeared in Chicago hockey. Goaltender Antti Niemi briefly wore #84 for the Chicago Blackhawks before switching to #31.
Looking Ahead
The Bears and their fans hope that Loveland, like Niemi, can bring success to Chicago. hopefully Chicago’s newest #84, like the aforementioned net-minder, will help his team bring some hardware to Illinois.
FAQ About Colston Loveland and the #84
- Why did colston Loveland choose #84?
- It is indeed unconfirmed if he chose it or was assigned the number.
- Why couldn’t he wear his college number?
- Caleb Williams already has #18.
- Who is the most notable Bears player to wear #84?
- Brian Baschnagel, a wide receiver from 1976-1984.
