Keon Coleman’s Future in Buffalo Looks Uncertain as Frustration Mounts
Keon Coleman was drafted to be the next big thing in Buffalo - a potential heir to Stefon Diggs, and a playmaker who could grow into a go-to target for Josh Allen. But two seasons in, the returns haven’t matched the expectations.
The Bills used the 33rd overall pick on Coleman, hoping his size, athleticism, and contested-catch ability would give them a new weapon on the outside. Instead, they’ve gotten flashes, not fireworks - and patience inside the building appears to be wearing thin.
While much of the outside criticism has landed on general manager Brandon Beane, team owner Terry Pegula recently stepped in to shift the narrative. In a video clip posted Wednesday, Pegula revealed that the coaching staff pushed hard for Coleman in the draft room.
“The coaching staff pushed to draft Keon,” Pegula said. “I'm not saying Brandon wouldn't have drafted him, but he wasn't his next choice.”
That’s a revealing statement. It suggests Beane may have had another player in mind at No. 33, but deferred to the coaching staff’s conviction. Pegula went on to defend Beane’s role in the decision, saying the GM was simply being a team player - trusting his coaches and taking their advice.
“[Beane] has taken, for some reason, heat over it and not said a word about it, but I'm here to tell you the true story,” Pegula added.
Whether this was an attempt to shield Beane from criticism or a subtle rebuke of the now-departed head coach Sean McDermott - who Pegula recently fired - it’s clear the organization is trying to clarify how the decision to draft Coleman unfolded. And it’s just as clear that Coleman’s lack of production is becoming a point of contention.
Coleman’s Struggles and a Possible Exit
Coleman’s numbers haven’t helped his case. He’s yet to crack 600 receiving yards across two seasons, and his trajectory from 2024 to 2025 has been trending in the wrong direction. For a player drafted at the top of the second round, that’s concerning - especially for a team trying to remain in the AFC title hunt.
With a critical offseason ahead, Buffalo might look to recoup some value by moving Coleman. A trade isn’t out of the question, especially if the front office feels a change of scenery could benefit both sides. Coleman still has the physical tools that made him a high pick, but the fit in Buffalo just hasn’t clicked.
Potential Landing Spots
If the Bills do decide to move on, there are a few teams that could take a flier on Coleman as a depth piece with upside.
One intriguing option? The New York Giants.
Their offense is still a work in progress, and their wide receiver room has been hit hard by injuries in recent years. A player like Coleman could slide into a rotational role and potentially carve out a bigger opportunity if he earns the trust of a new coaching staff.
Under John Harbaugh, who now leads the Giants, Coleman might even find the kind of structure and support that could help him reset his career.
Another potential fit is the Arizona Cardinals. With Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson locked in as the top two receivers, Arizona could use a bigger-bodied third option to complement their passing attack. Coleman wouldn’t be asked to carry the load - just contribute in spots and develop behind two promising young wideouts.
What’s Next for Coleman?
For now, Coleman remains a Bill. But the tone around him has shifted. The public backing of Beane, the finger-pointing at the coaching staff, and the lack of production on the field - it all adds up to a player walking a fine line between “young talent” and “roster casualty.”
The NFL isn’t known for its patience, especially at the wide receiver position. Coleman still has time to change the narrative, but the clock is ticking. If Buffalo decides to move on, his next stop might be his last real chance to prove he belongs.