Breaking: Keon Coleman poised to take over Buffalo Bills’ need at “X” WR

Keon Coleman Ready to Step Into Key Role as Bills’ “X” Receiver

As the Buffalo Bills gear up for the 2025 NFL season, second-year wideout Keon Coleman is drawing attention with his standout performance during OTAs. The former second-round pick appears poised to fill a major void in the Bills’ offense as the team looks for a new “X” receiver.

Coleman’s rookie year showed flashes of his potential, including a strong start with 21 catches for 396 yards and three touchdowns through eight games. At 6’4″ and 215 pounds, his size and deep-threat ability made him a promising replacement for Stefon Diggs, who was traded in the 2024 offseason. However, a midseason wrist injury stalled his momentum, and upon returning, he struggled to regain his earlier role in the offense, finishing with 29 receptions for 556 yards and four scores.

Now healthier and stronger — reportedly having added around 10 pounds of muscle — Coleman has impressed both teammates and coaches with his offseason transformation. Head coach Sean McDermott noted the wide receiver’s improved conditioning, while observers at OTAs have praised his sharper cuts, quicker footwork, and improved route running. Questions about his speed out of college seem less relevant now, as GPS tracking shows he plays faster than his 4.61-second 40-yard dash time suggests.

The departure of Mack Hollins to New England opens up a critical opportunity for Coleman to step into a more prominent role. Hollins was valued for his toughness, physicality, and versatility in the Bills’ offense. Coleman’s size and enhanced strength make him a strong candidate to replicate that role and perhaps expand on it, especially in contested-catch situations and run-blocking assignments.

Coleman himself has shown maturity in acknowledging the challenges of his first season. On the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, he reflected on losing his spot in the lineup after his injury and how the team’s success without him taught him to value resilience and preparation. Bills GM Brandon Beane expressed confidence in Coleman’s progress, pointing to his youth (he was just 21 as a rookie) and dedication to self-improvement as indicators of his potential.

Off the field, Coleman’s upbeat personality and sense of humor have made him a fan favorite, with his upcoming appearance on HBO’s Hard Knocks set to raise his profile even more. But it’s his on-field growth that could make the biggest impact. With Josh Allen leading a loaded offense that includes Khalil Shakir, Curtis Samuel, and newcomers Josh Palmer and Elijah Moore, Coleman isn’t expected to carry the receiving corps — but he could become a crucial piece.

Allen has already praised Coleman’s commitment, sharing that the receiver texted him expressing his determination to improve. This growing chemistry bodes well for Coleman potentially becoming a trusted red-zone target.

In summary, Keon Coleman’s mix of size, physicality, and work ethic sets him up as a prime breakout candidate in 2025. With the door wide open and the support of the coaching staff, Coleman has a golden opportunity to take over as the Bills’ starting “X” receiver and help fuel another Super Bowl run.