Can the Bills’ rookie rise to the occasion and shine under less pressure?
The biggest winner in the Amari Cooper trade might just be Keon Coleman! As a rookie for the Buffalo Bills, Coleman now has the chance to learn from a seasoned pro who’s found success in the NFL—all while feeling less pressure to be Josh Allen’s go-to target.
Picked as the No. 33 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Florida State standout is viewed as a key asset for the Bills, especially after the team traded Stefan Diggs and saw Gabriel Davis leave through free agency. With fellow young talents like Khalil Shakir and tight ends Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox, Coleman is positioned to make an impact right away—no small feat for a rookie!
With less pressure on his shoulders, Keon Coleman has a golden opportunity ahead! So far, the rookie has been doing alright for the 4-2 Bills. Up to Week 6 of the 2024 NFL season, he’s made 12 catches for 201 yards and found the end zone twice. One of his standout moments was a thrilling 49-yard touchdown reception during the team’s Week 5 matchup against the Houston Texans, highlighting the potential of this impressive 6-foot-4 talent when he gets a chance to shine.
With Amari Cooper stepping in as the top receiver, Coleman can focus on learning and growing without the overwhelming pressure to perform. He’s fully embracing Cooper’s presence, and it’s clear this could open up even more opportunities for him!
“It’s like adding someone with a bigger paycheck to your household,” Coleman shared with Spectrum writer Andy Young. “It helps cover all the bases, eases the load, and allows everyone else to shine. Plus, it brings a whole new level of threat to the offense.”
It’s a clever analogy, and it really rings true! The consistency that Cooper brings to the offense will be a game-changer for Coleman. With Cooper as a reliable target for Josh Allen, Coleman can step in as a third option, benefiting from more favorable matchups. This not only lets him showcase his size and talent but also provides him a chance to learn from a savvy veteran. It’s a win-win for the rookie.
Overall, the Cooper trade was a significant victory for the Bills, especially considering they only gave up a third-round pick! It gives Josh Allen a solid No. 1 target to count on while also providing rookie Coleman with invaluable insights on and off the field. With Cooper around, Coleman can learn the tricks of the trade to win matchups and create opportunities to get open for his quarterback. It’s a smart move that benefits everyone involved!
