Buffalo Bills’ Keon Coleman: Why His Sophomore Season Could Lead to Fantasy Football Dominance
Keon Coleman’s rookie season with the Buffalo Bills was a rollercoaster. While he flashed moments of brilliance, including a 100-yard game against the Tennessee Titans and a knack for finding the end zone, consistency proved elusive. Now, heading into his second year, the stage is set for Coleman to not only solidify his role in the Bills’ offense but also to emerge as a potential fantasy football superstar. Remember that incredible one-handed catch he made during training camp last year? That’s just a glimpse of the potential he possesses.
The Opportunity is Ripe
The Buffalo Bills’ wide receiver landscape is undergoing a transformation. With Amari Cooper and Mack Hollins entering free agency, a significant number of targets are up for grabs. Last season, Coleman was third on the team in targets, despite starting 13 games. If Buffalo decides to lean into their youth movement, Coleman could easily see a substantial increase in opportunities.
Consider this: Hollins and Cooper accounted for a combined 82 targets in 2024. If Coleman can absorb a significant portion of those vacated targets, he could realistically approach 100 targets in his sophomore campaign. This increased volume, combined with his already proven big-play ability, could be a recipe for fantasy football dominance.
Untapped Potential: Refining His Game
While Coleman’s raw talent is undeniable, there’s room for improvement in his game. One area of focus should be his catch percentage. Last season, he hauled in just 50.9% of his targets. However, it’s worth noting that catch percentage is a statistic that often improves for receivers in their second year.
If Coleman can improve his catch percentage by even 15%, he could be looking at a significant increase in receptions. Imagine him catching 65 passes on 100 targets. Given his impressive 19.2 yards per catch average from last season, that could translate to over 1,000 receiving yards and double-digit touchdowns. That kind of leap would catapult him from a promising rookie to a legitimate fantasy football WR1.
The Josh Allen Factor
Let’s not forget the most crucial element in Coleman’s potential breakout: Josh Allen. The Bills’ star quarterback has a penchant for taking shots downfield, and Coleman’s size, athleticism, and contested-catch ability make him an ideal target. Allen’s trust in Coleman was evident throughout last season, and that connection is only likely to strengthen with more experience and opportunities.
During 2024 training camp, Allen and Coleman were frequently seen connecting on deep passes, showcasing their growing chemistry. Allen loves to throw it downfield and Coleman has the ability to rise up and make contested catches.
Dynasty League Darling?
For those of you in dynasty leagues, now might be the perfect time to invest in Keon Coleman. While his rookie season may not have set the world on fire, his long-term potential remains incredibly high. Some analysts are surprised by the lack of enthusiasm for Coleman, whose dynasty ECR is WR49. As a rookie, Coleman showed off the extraordinary ball skills that made him an early-second-round NFL Draft pick. He had only 29 catches in 13 games, but he averaged 19.2 yards per catch and 9.8 yards per route run. Coleman is still only 21, the Bills haven’t made any substantial WR additions in the offseason (no, Josh Palmer doesn’t count), and Coleman is likely to be playing with QB Josh Allen for several more years.
He’s still just 21 years old, and he’s tied to one of the league’s best quarterbacks for the foreseeable future. If you can acquire him at a reasonable price, he could be a cornerstone of your dynasty team for years to come.
Competition for Targets
It’s important to acknowledge that Coleman won’t be the only receiver vying for targets in Buffalo. Khalil Shakir and Curtis Samuel are also expected to play significant roles in the offense, along with tight ends Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox. Even pass-catching running backs like James Cook and Ty Johnson could steal some targets.
However, Coleman’s unique skillset and potential to be a true alpha receiver give him an edge over the competition. If he can establish himself as Allen’s go-to guy, the sky’s the limit.
Overcoming Rookie Hurdles
Coleman’s rookie season wasn’t without its challenges. A wrist injury suffered in Week 9 against the Miami Dolphins hampered his production down the stretch. After returning from the injury, he struggled to regain his early-season form, recording just 10 receptions in seven games, including the playoffs.
However, it’s important to remember that injuries are a part of the game, and rookies often need time to adjust to the physical demands of the NFL. With a full offseason to recover and refine his game, Coleman should be better prepared to handle the rigors of a full season.
The Verdict
Keon Coleman possesses all the tools necessary to become a fantasy football star. He has the size, athleticism, and ball skills to dominate opposing defenses, and he’s fortunate to be playing with an elite quarterback in Josh Allen. With increased opportunities and continued development, his sophomore season could be a breakout year. Keep a close eye on Coleman as you prepare for your fantasy drafts. He could be the steal of the draft and a key to your fantasy football success.