At the NFL Scouting Combine, where prospects showcase their skills for NFL teams, the 40-yard dash is a pivotal event that garners significant attention. It’s a straightforward metric for evaluating speed and agility, often influencing draft decisions.
Keon Coleman, a wide receiver from Florida State, clocked in at 4.61 seconds in the 40-yard dash, falling short of expectations. However, this result didn’t deter Buffalo Bills’ general manager Brandon Beane, who saw an opportunity.
Following Coleman’s run, Beane expressed contentment to his colleagues, Brian Gaine and Terrance Gray, stating, “I’m glad he ran that. It’ll help to get him.” True to his words, the Bills strategically maneuvered in the draft to secure Coleman’s talents.
Through a series of trades, the Bills moved back from their original spot at No. 28, eventually selecting Coleman with the first pick of Day 2, demonstrating their confidence in his abilities despite his combine performance.
Love these behind the scenes looks from the evaluation side along with the quotable & telling lines. Also pairs nicely with the well chosen reps of Keon Coleman at the Combine#Bills #BillsMafia #GoBills
— Anthony Cover 1 (@Pro__Ant) May 8, 2024
Despite his 40-yard dash time, Beane expresses confidence in the wide receiver’s speed.
“He’s a player with natural speed and agility, especially considering his size,” Beane remarked. “Speed isn’t just about what you clock on the track; it’s about how you perform under pressure, how you read the game. You could be the fastest guy out there, but if you’re not mentally sharp, that speed won’t translate on the field.”
Buffalo is currently revamping its receiving lineup, and Coleman is poised to be a key part of this transformation. Following the departure of Gabe Davis in free agency and the trade of Stefon Diggs to the Texans for a second-round pick, Coleman, alongside tight end Dalton Kincaid and wideouts Khalil Shakir, Curtis Samuel, and Mack Hollins, will offer Josh Allen a fresh array of targets. While it may take some time for this new unit to gel, it’s evident that the Bills are entering a new era with Allen at the helm.
