The Buffalo Bills appear to be moving away from relying on Keon Coleman, the team’s second-round pick from the 2024 NFL Draft, who is expected to remain inactive for the second consecutive game during Thursday night’s match against the Houston Texans. This decision comes after Coleman was a surprise inactive last week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, indicating he has unexpectedly fallen out of favor with the coaching staff.
Coach Sean McDermott revealed that Coleman was benched after arriving late to a meeting, stating that his decision arose from a series of such mistakes. “That was my decision. It is disappointing, but I still believe in the young man,” McDermott said, asserting that he allows players a chance to prove themselves but also enforces accountability when necessary. Coleman had an impressive start to the season with eight receptions for 112 yards and a touchdown during Week 1 in a thrilling comeback win against the Ravens. However, his performance has severely declined since then, failing to surpass 50 receiving yards in subsequent games.
Coleman’s overall season statistics reflect his struggles, with only 32 catches for 330 yards and three touchdowns to date. Following his benching, Coleman acknowledged the need for self-improvement and accountability, affirming his commitment to “doing the right things” and being present where he is needed.
This shift comes as the Bills, currently holding a 7-3 record, gear up for an important game against the 9-2 New England Patriots, as they strive to maintain their Super Bowl aspirations. The loss of a promising talent like Coleman could present challenges, but it also offers opportunities for other players to step up and prove their worth in the competitive landscape of the NFL. The team’s resilience and ability to adapt will be crucial as they face a critical juncture in their season.