Is This Bills Receiver on the Cusp of a Breakout Season?
With the Buffalo Bills heading into a new season and no clear WR1, all eyes are on second-round pick Keon Coleman. Coleman was drafted in 2023 with hopes of filling the void left by Stefon Diggs. The receiver from Florida State looked promising, but his debut for the Bills fell short of expectations. Coleman was plagued with injuries during his rookie season and posted less-than-impressive stats.
Coleman had an impressive final season at Florida State in 2023, helping to lead the Seminoles to an undefeated record. He had over 600 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. His chemistry with star quarterback Josh Allen was undeniable from day one. According to the team’s official website, the QB texted the rookie, saying, “You're the guy that I want. I watched a lot of receivers, and I want to play with you.” The team was confident that this duo would help take the Bills to the Super Bowl.
Looking back at his regular-season stats, Coleman fell short. The rookie managed 29 receptions and 556 receiving yards in his first season, less than his final year at Florida State. This performance was likely affected by a wrist injury in Week Nine against the Miami Dolphins. In an interview with Carmelo Anthony, Coleman shared that after his injury, he had to adjust to a reduced role in the second half of the season.
The question now remains: Will year two be Coleman’s breakout season? The WR has potential. Despite his injuries, the rookie still managed to cross the end zone four times and, now healthy, is determined to have a better year. In an interview with NFL.com, Coleman gave the harsh self-assessment: "You want to know exactly what I see? When that s--- trash, you got to be better, simple as that." Coleman is hungry for a breakout season.
With mini and training camps underway, Coleman has been watched closely, and his progression is undeniable. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Allen said, “He’s bigger right now. He’s faster. He’s stronger. He understands the playbook better.” Allen does not doubt that his receiver is due for a breakout. According to minicamp notes, Sean McDermott also shared that it is clear the work Coleman has put into his physique during the offseason. If Coleman stays healthy, he is set to deliver the breakout season fans have been waiting for.
