Keon Coleman’s 2026 season already has the feel of a crossroads, and the Bills wideout has been treating it that way. After a frustrating 2025 campaign, Coleman has been working with former Bills receiver Stevie Johnson, who says the young pass-catcher has the kind of raw package that can turn into something special if it all comes together on a weekly basis.
Johnson said he reached out to Coleman after last season ended. The 2024 second-round pick had been benched at times for disciplinary reasons, and his struggles were highlighted by team owner Terry Pegula during the press conference that followed Sean McDermott’s firing. Coleman has described 2026 as a “make or break” year, and Johnson’s message has been centered on turning talent into something consistent.
On One Bills Drive, Johnson said Coleman has been “the opposite” of what he expected before they met. He also called him “a masterful student,” praising the way Coleman is learning both how to carry himself as a pro and how to give quarterback Josh Allen exactly what he needs each week.
“He can be the best,” Johnson said. “He can be considered one of the best because he has every tool.
He’s got the height, he’s got the size, he’s got the speed. He’s got it so much to the point where people kind of overlook it now.
They’ve seen all of the great traits. They just want to see it always on Sunday.
And that’s pretty much what we worked on. How to make it show on Sunday.”
Johnson said Coleman’s willingness to learn gives him confidence that the receiver can “put all of his tools together each week and make it happen.” He also pointed to Coleman’s response to criticism last season, saying the wideout showed he’s “mature” by not firing back angrily.
The Bills have voiced similar belief in Coleman, and their offense would love to see that faith rewarded.
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