Camp Report: Grady Jarrett Dominates in Full Pads, Colston Loveland Impresses as Receiving Threat, Luther Burden Makes Triumphant Return

Training camp intensity reached a new level this week as teams across the NFL and college football landscape strapped on full pads. Among the standout stories: Grady Jarrett reestablishing dominance on the defensive line, Colston Loveland flashing elite-level potential as a mismatch nightmare, and the highly-anticipated return of wide receiver Luther Burden, who wasted no time reminding coaches and fans alike why he’s a rising star.

Whether it’s the veteran leadership of Jarrett, the ascending stardom of Loveland, or the resilience of Burden, this week’s camp developments delivered high-impact headlines and insights into the 2025 season trajectory.

Grady Jarrett: A Man Among Boys in the Trenches

Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Grady Jarrett didn’t just return to camp—he returned with a purpose.

Coming off a torn ACL that cut short his 2024 season, the veteran defensive lineman looked like a man possessed during the team’s first padded practice on Monday. Jarrett beat double-teams, disrupted run plays, and even got into the backfield for what would’ve been two clear sacks in full-speed simulations.

“You could feel him,” said head coach Raheem Morris. “He brings that presence—the way he plays, the energy, the leadership—it’s different when 97’s out there.”

Jarrett, now entering his 10th NFL season, has long been a fixture of Atlanta’s defensive identity. But after undergoing extensive rehab and missing over half of last season, questions lingered about whether he could regain his explosiveness.

On Monday, those questions were answered emphatically.

“He looked like the old Grady—maybe even better,” said right guard Chris Lindstrom, who faced off against Jarrett in one-on-ones. “You can’t give him an inch, or he’ll take a mile.”

Jarrett’s presence in the middle is even more critical this year, as the Falcons look to reshape a defense that finished in the bottom half of the league in sacks and pressures last season. If camp is any indication, Jarrett’s return could be a catalyst for an improved front seven under new defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake.

“Every rep I take is with gratitude,” Jarrett said after practice. “I missed this game so much. Now that I’m back, I want to dominate every play I’m in.”

Colston Loveland: Michigan’s Breakout Offensive Weapon?

If the Michigan Wolverines are looking for a new offensive centerpiece, tight end Colston Loveland is making a compelling case. With star receivers Roman Wilson and Cornelius Johnson gone to the NFL, Loveland is emerging as the most dangerous target in Ann Arbor.

During padded scrimmages this week, the 6-foot-5, 245-pound junior routinely beat linebackers and safeties, hauling in red zone touchdowns and showing elite body control and soft hands. Michigan’s offensive staff is clearly designing more plays around him—and for good reason.

“He’s not just a tight end,” said offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell. “He’s a weapon. He’s quicker than linebackers and too strong for corners. You can move him all over.”

Loveland caught 45 passes for 649 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2024, but with a new-look receiving corps and quarterback Alex Orji continuing to develop, his role figures to expand dramatically. During Thursday’s two-minute drill, Loveland caught four passes in one drive, including a diving grab over the middle that had scouts buzzing on the sidelines.

“Colston’s been unguardable at times,” said linebacker Ernest Hausmann. “He makes you better just by having to cover him every day.”

Notably, Loveland has also stepped into a leadership role following the departures of key veterans. Coaches have praised his work ethic, film study habits, and mentorship of young tight ends.

“He’s been a total pro in his approach,” Campbell added. “We expect a huge year.”

Luther Burden: Back and Better Than Ever?

Missouri’s biggest camp storyline came with a mix of anticipation and relief: the return of All-SEC wide receiver Luther Burden III. After missing spring practices due to an ankle procedure, Burden finally rejoined full-team activities this week—and wasted no time making an impact.

In just his second practice back, Burden caught a 60-yard bomb from quarterback Brady Cook, evading two defensive backs and outrunning the secondary for a touchdown that brought the entire sideline to its feet.

“He’s got juice,” said head coach Eli Drinkwitz. “Luther brings electricity to our offense. It changes the way defenses have to line up.”

Burden, who finished the 2024 season with 1,212 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns, is widely viewed as one of the top wideouts in college football entering the 2025 campaign. His speed, route-running, and after-the-catch ability give the Tigers a true game-breaker.

But what’s most impressed the coaching staff isn’t just his athleticism—it’s his mental approach.

“Even while he was rehabbing, he was in every meeting, every film session,” said wide receivers coach Jacob Peeler. “He’s locked in like a vet.”

With Burden fully healthy, Missouri’s offense regains its explosive ceiling. Paired with Cook, who looks sharper in camp than ever before, and a strong returning offensive line, the Tigers might quietly be one of the most dangerous teams in the SEC East.

“It’s go time,” Burden said. “I’ve worked all offseason to come back stronger—and I’m not settling for anything less than greatness this year.”

Camp Notes and Observations

• Falcons rookie edge rusher Bralen Trice continues to impress in drills. The second-round pick out of Washington has shown a quick first step and consistently challenged Atlanta’s tackles in pass-rush situations. Look for him to rotate in early with the first team.

• Michigan running back Donovan Edwards has reportedly added 8 pounds of muscle this offseason without losing any speed. Coaches believe he could be used more frequently in two-back sets and even as a slot receiver.

• Missouri defensive coordinator Corey Batoon has been mixing in more 3-3-5 looks this week, an adjustment designed to combat the spread-heavy offenses the Tigers will face. Sophomore safety Marvin Burks Jr. has thrived in the “rover” role, making several open-field tackles and breaking up passes in the flat.

• Atlanta quarterback Michael Penix Jr., though unlikely to start in Week 1, has made progress in reads and timing. His chemistry with backup receivers has shown during second-team reps, and he’s been praised for his composure under pressure.

Emerging Themes: Veteran Presence and Youth Development

The week’s standout performances also highlight a broader theme across camps—teams relying on a blend of proven veterans and rising stars to shape their identities.

Grady Jarrett’s leadership on the Falcons’ defensive line serves as a vital stabilizer for a young front seven. Meanwhile, Colston Loveland represents the new breed of hybrid offensive weapons in college football, combining tight end strength with wide receiver fluidity. And Luther Burden’s return adds both explosiveness and credibility to a Missouri program looking to contend in the SEC.

Each player is at a different point in their career, yet all are responding to the moment—setting the tone not just in practice, but potentially for their teams’ entire seasons.

What’s Next?

With joint practices on the horizon and preseason games just around the corner, the intensity will only increase. For Jarrett, it’s about staying healthy while continuing to dominate the interior. For Loveland, it’s building trust with his quarterback and emerging as a go-to target. And for Burden, the task is simple: stay healthy, stay explosive, and lead Missouri’s charge.

If this week’s performances are any indication, all three are poised for major seasons in 2025—and they’re already turning heads.