In a press conference held on Wednesday, Bills owner Terry Pegula addressed the decision to terminate head coach Sean McDermott, highlighting the role of general manager Brandon Beane and the pick of wide receiver Keon Coleman. Pegula disclosed that while Coleman was not Beane’s top choice, the coaching staff advocated for his selection, emphasizing Beane’s willingness to collaborate for the team’s benefit.
This choice to keep Beane while holding McDermott accountable for the team’s playoff shortcomings has attracted criticism from both fans and analysts. The focus has shifted to Beane’s roster decisions, including the controversial drafting of Coleman, who found himself as a healthy scratch several times during the season due to tardiness issues concerning team meetings.
Pegula defended Beane during the conference, reiterating that the backlash against him was unwarranted. However, in doing so, he pointed out Coleman’s struggles, drawing attention to the young player’s failure to establish himself within the team.
Coleman, 22, made a name for himself at Florida State after transferring from Michigan State. He received recognition for his performance in college, earning third-team All-Big Ten honors in 2022 and first-team All-ACC accolades in 2023. He has announced his decision to enter the 2024 NFL Draft after the Bills selected him with the 33rd overall pick in the second round, securing a four-year contract worth over $10 million, which included a significant signing bonus.
In his second year with the Bills in 2025, Coleman participated in 13 games, recording 38 receptions for 404 yards and four touchdowns. The story surrounding Coleman, the front office’s strategic decisions, and the future direction of the Bills will be closely watched as developments unfold.