Colston Loveland showcased impressive production in his recent outings, achieving a 78.4% route share. However, with the anticipated return of Luther Burden, it is likely Loveland’s involvement may decline. Last week, the absence of both Burden and Rome Odunze allowed Loveland and Cole Kmet to dominate the receiving game, both securing route shares above 75.7%. With Burden back in the lineup, it’s expected that Olamide Zaccheaus will revert to his slot role, while Burden will shift between the perimeter and the slot. This will likely see Loveland and Kmet’s route shares dip to around 60%.
Since Week 10, Loveland has performed as the TE16 in terms of fantasy points per game, achieving two outings as a TE1. He has maintained a 14% target share, averaging 42 receiving yards per game, while also registering 1.92 yards per route run and a 16.5% first-read share. Notably, Loveland has received five targets in the red zone and one deep target during this stretch.
The matchup against the 49ers is significant, as their defense has allowed the eighth-most receiving yards and the second-most fantasy points per game to tight ends this season. Given these factors, Loveland remains a borderline TE1 option, carrying a glimmer of optimism for fantasy players this week. The expected shifts in offensive dynamics could create opportunities for him to maintain relevance despite changes in the lineup.