Keon Coleman’s development as the Buffalo Bills’ top receiver has been a topic of much discussion among fans and analysts alike. When the team drafted the young wideout in the third round of this year’s NFL draft, many had high hopes for his potential impact on the field. However, through the early portion of the season, Coleman’s performance has not quite lived up to expectations.

This has raised some concerns among the fanbase, with some even calling for the team to explore trade options before the NFL’s Nov. 4 deadline. In an offense designed to push the ball down the field, Coleman’s struggles have been particularly frustrating.

One of those who has taken notice of Coleman’s slow start is former NFL wide receiver Steve Smith. Smith, who now works as an analyst for the NFL Network, recently shared his thoughts on the young playmaker’s performance.

“Keon Coleman’s development has not been what the Bills and their fans were hoping for,” Smith said on a recent episode of NFL Total Access. “He was expected to come in and make an immediate impact, but that just hasn’t been the case.”

Smith went on to explain that it’s not uncommon for young players to take some time to adjust to the NFL game. As a rookie himself, Smith struggled in his first season before eventually becoming one of the league’s top receivers.

“Being a rookie in the NFL is a tough transition,” Smith said. “It takes time to learn the ins and outs of the game, the speed, and the physicality. Coleman has all the physical tools, but it’s clear that he still has some learning to do.”

However, Smith also had a strong message for Bills fans who are starting to lose faith in Coleman. He reminded them that it’s still early in the season and that it’s far too soon to give up on the talented rookie.

“Let’s not forget that it’s only been a few games into the season,” Smith said. “There’s still plenty of time for Coleman to develop and make an impact on this team. He has the potential to be a game-changing receiver, and I have no doubt that he will eventually live up to the expectations.”

Smith also pointed out that Coleman is not the only one who needs to step up on the Bills’ offense. The team as a whole has struggled to find consistency, and it’s unfair to put all the blame on one player.

“It’s not just on Coleman to turn things around for the Bills’ offense,” Smith said. “The entire team needs to step up and find ways to improve. It’s a team effort, and they need to support each other and work together to achieve success.”

Despite the growing concern among fans, the Bills’ coaching staff and front office have shown confidence in Coleman’s abilities. Head coach Sean McDermott and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll have both expressed faith in the young receiver and are committed to helping him reach his full potential.

As the Bills head into the rest of the season, it’s important for fans to continue to support Coleman and the team. Instead of calling for trades and giving up on the rookie, let’s give him the time and space he needs to develop into the player we all know he can be.

In the end, Coleman’s struggles are just a part of the learning process for any young player in the NFL. It’s up to him and his teammates to use this experience to grow and improve, and ultimately help the Bills achieve their goal of becoming Super Bowl champions. So let’s continue to believe in Keon Coleman and the Buffalo Bills, and trust that they will rise above these early season challenges.