Bills’ Keon Coleman reveals Josh Allen’s draft day message

Coleman was an end-zone magnet last season, hauling in 50 catches, 658 yards, and 11 touchdowns with Florida State, garnering him first-team All-ACC honors. He also took home third-team All-Big Ten status in 2022, recording 58 receptions, 798 yards, and seven scores.

However, Coleman isn’t a completely refined prospect yet, via NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein.

“Coleman has excellent size and ball skills,” said Zierlein. “He’s not sudden and doesn’t have great speed, so beating press and creating breathing room against tight man coverages will depend on his ability to improve as a route-runner.”

This is typical for taller receivers, as their longer strides usually result in less explosion and quickness. Coleman’s route-running, though, can be worked on over time. This is a common issue for younger receivers, and it’s a skill that comes with reps and experience.

“The former star basketball player has a rebounder’s blend of extension and timing to give jump-ball defenders the blues,” Zierlein continued. “He’s big and strong with soft hands, but he can play with a little more aggression in claiming his deep-ball space and getting after it as a run blocker. Coleman might lack the athletic traits to be a well-rounded WR2. Instead, keep an eye on him as a big slot receiver who can be a red-zone specialist.”

If Zierlein’s prediction comes true, Coleman may not be versatile enough to get to Diggs’ level. However, he could become a Plaxico Burress-style vertical threat, a big-bodied safety blanket that can be trusted with jump balls.

Regardless, Coleman will need time to develop his game. While some rookies hit the ground running immediately, wide receiver is a meticulous position that has a fairly steep learning curve at the next level. Breaking down NFL secondaries is significantly more difficult than the NCAA, and the only way to get better at it is by gaining experience.