Criticism Aimed at Keon Coleman from Steve Smith Sr.

Former NFL wide receiver and current analyst Steve Smith Sr. has not held back in his critique of Buffalo Bills second-year receiver Keon Coleman. On a recent episode of the podcast “89 with Steve Smith Sr.,” he expressed sharp disapproval about Coleman’s performance this season.

Smith specifically highlighted Coleman’s struggles with productivity and his difficulty in getting open from defenders. “Well, the short answer is nothing,” Smith said, reflecting on Coleman’s output and chances. He argued that the young receiver simply isn’t creating enough separation to gain quarterback Josh Allen’s trust. “Josh looks his way but moves off him too quickly,” he noted. Some fans might point out moments when Coleman was technically open, but Smith countered that it’s more about timing and confidence from the quarterback.

In terms of numbers, Coleman had 57 targets and 556 receiving yards over 13 games in the 2024 season. However, in 2025, he has managed just 267 yards on 27 targets, suggesting a significant decline. Smith, together with co-host James Palmer, pointed out that after a strong first game this season—where Coleman snagged eight receptions—his reception count dropped drastically to only 19 in subsequent weeks.

Interestingly, Coleman stands at 6 feet 4 inches tall, significantly taller than Smith, who played at 5 feet 9 inches. Yet, despite the height advantage, Smith expressed skepticism about Coleman’s ability to serve as a reliable go-to option for the Bills. “You’ll remember that I sometimes get accused of being jealous of tall players,” he said, before emphasizing that Coleman’s stats—4 receptions on 12 targets—illustrate his struggles further.

“He doesn’t have the ability to be a true No. 1, and he doesn’t,” Smith added. “He can’t get out of a jam. You can’t teach a dog how to bark. Either he gets it or he doesn’t.” In response, Coleman appeared to take Smith’s comments lightly, sharing four laughing emojis on social media.

On a positive note, the Bills have maintained a perfect record of 4-0 when Coleman achieves at least 25 receiving yards. After some setbacks against the New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons, they pulled off a convincing victory against the Carolina Panthers in Week 8. Looking ahead, the Bills are set to host the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday, a rematch many will be watching closely.