The Buffalo Bills are relying on rookie wide receiver Keon Coleman to make a significant impact in the 2024 NFL season after losing star receivers Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis. Can Coleman live up to the hype and become Josh Allen’s new go-to target?
High Expectations for the Rookie Receiver
Bleacher Report analyst Kristopher Knox recently named Keon Coleman the Bills’ biggest X-factor for the upcoming season. With the departure of Diggs and Davis, the Bills are in dire need of a new number one receiver. While veterans Curtis Samuel and Mack Hollins were brought in to bolster the receiving corps, the team is hoping Coleman can quickly develop into a reliable target for quarterback Josh Allen. Knox believes Coleman’s performance will be crucial to the Bills’ offensive success.
Coleman’s College Career and Draft Selection
The Bills selected Coleman in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft after an impressive college career split between Michigan State and Florida State. In his final season at Michigan State, Coleman recorded 58 receptions for 798 yards and seven touchdowns. After transferring to Florida State, he continued to shine, catching 50 passes for 658 yards and 11 touchdowns. This strong collegiate performance suggests Coleman has the potential to excel in the NFL.
Competition for Targets in Buffalo
While Coleman faces high expectations, he isn’t the only receiving option for the Bills. Khalil Shakir, who served as the third receiver last season, is expected to compete for the top spot. Additionally, the Bills have two talented tight ends in Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox, who will likely command a significant share of targets. Despite the competition, the Bills are counting on Coleman to emerge as a key contributor to the offense.
A Challenging Road Ahead for the Bills
The Bills face a tough road in 2024 after a challenging offseason. Besides losing their top two receivers, the team parted ways with several other key players on both sides of the ball. The AFC East is expected to be highly competitive, with the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets posing significant threats to the Bills’ four-year reign as division champions. The team’s success will hinge on Allen’s ability to adapt to a new receiving corps and Coleman’s ability to step up and fill the void left by Diggs.
Can Coleman and Allen Ignite the Bills’ Offense?
The 2024 season will be a critical test for both Josh Allen and Keon Coleman. Allen needs to prove he can maintain his elite level of play without his former top targets. Coleman, meanwhile, must quickly adapt to the NFL and establish himself as a reliable receiver. The Bills’ success will depend on their ability to develop a strong connection and lead the team to victory.