In a puzzling move ahead of their Week 12 matchup, the Buffalo Bills announced a benching that has confused fans, analysts, and more than likely Josh Allen.
Wide Receiver Keon Coleman, fully healthy, will not play. This comes as a shock to fans, especially considering that Buffalo’s receiving corps has been severely depleted in recent weeks. (ESPN)
Coleman, who has been a standout target for Josh Allen, had practiced fully all week. His absence from the active roster leaves Allen with even fewer weapons as he looks to maintain Buffalo’s offensive momentum. With other receivers sidelined due to injury, Coleman’s scratch adds a layer of confusion for both analysts and fans.
Why Buffalo’s Decision Raises Eyebrows
Nov 9, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) reacts during the second half against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Romance-Imagn Images
Nov 9, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) reacts during the second half against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Romance-Imagn Images
The Bills have already been forced to adjust their game plan due to injuries to key receivers. Star wideouts such as Gabriel Davis and Stefon Diggs have seen limited availability in recent weeks, leaving Allen with limited options in the passing game. Coleman, expected to contribute significantly as a versatile target, was anticipated to help fill the void.
Head coach Sean McDermott cited “team strategy” as the reason for Coleman’s benching but did not provide further details. Analysts are left to speculate whether this decision is meant to protect Coleman from overuse, manage a minor undisclosed issue, or simply a tactical move against the opponent’s defense.
Impact on Josh Allen and the Offense
Allen’s chemistry with Coleman had been developing steadily before this week. Coleman’s absence forces Allen to rely more heavily on tight ends and remaining receivers, as well as his rushing ability. This limitation could make Buffalo’s offense more predictable and easier for opponents to defend.
“When you lose a weapon like Coleman, it puts more pressure on Josh to make plays in tight windows,” said an NFL analyst. (ESPN)
With Allen already facing one of the league’s stingiest defenses this week, every missing target magnifies the challenge. Bills fans have taken to social media, questioning why a healthy player is being withheld when depth at receiver is already thin.
Buffalo’s Depth at Receiver
Dec 29, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Keon Coleman (0) makes a catch against New York Jets cornerback Isaiah Oliver (23) during the first half at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Dec 29, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Keon Coleman (0) makes a catch against New York Jets cornerback Isaiah Oliver (23) during the first half at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
The Bills have attempted to compensate for injuries by promoting practice squad players and adjusting game plans, but the offensive attack has clearly been affected. Coleman’s scratch leaves a roster of largely inexperienced receivers, putting additional burden on Allen to maintain offensive efficiency.
In the short term, this decision could impact the team’s performance and force Allen to carry an even heavier load than usual. Long-term, it remains unclear if this is part of a strategic rotation, a precautionary move, or an indication of internal team issues.
Fans React to the Surprise Scratch
Social media reaction has been immediate:
“Why sit a healthy receiver when everyone else is hurt? Makes zero sense.”
“Josh Allen is going to have to do everything himself again this week.”
“Coleman is a beast, they need him on the field!”
Despite the backlash, the Bills organization has maintained a tight-lipped stance on the reasoning, leaving fans and analysts speculating.
Final Take
The Buffalo Bills’ decision to bench Keon Coleman, even while fully healthy, is a head-scratcher, especially given their depleted receiving corps. Josh Allen now faces the challenge of creating offense with fewer weapons, a test that could define the team’s ability to adapt under pressure. Whether this is a strategic move or an unnecessary risk, the impact on the field will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
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