Published on: April 1, 2026, 02:49h.

Updated on: April 1, 2026, 02:49h.

• • Stevie Johnson anticipates a breakout “Year 3” for Bills WR Keon Coleman
  • Former Bills player guiding Coleman to enhance route-running and football intellect
  • Johnson mentions D.J. Moore’s addition elevates the offense, but energy remains crucial

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Stevie Johnson continues to be impressed by the combination of size and speed in Bills’ third-year wide receiver, Keon Coleman. “A 6-foot-5 Hercules,” Johnson shared during an exclusive discussion with Casino.org.

Despite his impressive athleticism, Buffalo’s 2024 second-round pick has yet to enjoy a breakout success, especially after January’s controversy when owner Terry Pegula suggested GM Brandon Beane wasn’t responsible for his selection.

Despite some skepticism from insiders, Johnson firmly believes in Coleman’s potential to become a star, and he’s committed to supporting him. With a reputation as a route-running expert, Johnson revealed that he’s connected with Coleman this offseason to discuss key nuances of the wide receiver position.

“I hadn’t spoken to him in his first two seasons, until after last year,” Johnson noted. “It all makes sense now. I would think, ‘If only he would do this on this type of route.’ After our conversation, I discovered he wasn’t aware of that approach. Now I believe everything will start to click for him.” Johnson explained that Coleman, who excelled in both basketball and football during college, entered the NFL with much to learn about facing defensive backs.

“I reached out and really picked his brain,” Johnson said.

“I realized he was still grasping the game. He relied solely on juke moves to get open, rather than comprehending how defensive backs perceive him when they line up. It’s not merely about juke moves; it involves asserting dominance in their area and managing their reactions through various moves. We delved into this, and I began to understand why he wasn’t targeted much in goal-line situations last year—his routes were too predictable.”

Coleman recorded 29 receptions for 556 yards and four touchdowns as a rookie, but production fell to 38 catches for 404 yards and four touchdowns last season. He was a healthy scratch for four games, and some maturity issues arose. Johnson attributed these challenges to the absence of veteran influences in the wide receiver group.

“I benefited from seasoned players like Lee Evans, Roscoe Parrish, Josh Reed, and others,” Johnson reminisced. “Keon entered with Mack Hollins and other young talents, all striving to establish themselves. They’re all trying to navigate their roles, while Coleman was still figuring things out. There were aspects like not setting alarms and other youthful tendencies. He lacked a voice in the room to guide him.” Johnson remains optimistic about Coleman’s future.

Johnson himself had only 112 receiving yards in his first two seasons before emerging as a key player in Buffalo. He recalled Andre Reed’s significant statistical improvement in Year 3, leading to seven consecutive Pro Bowls starting in Year 4.

“He’ll absorb all this knowledge, and it will come together for him,” Johnson stated. “Year 3 is typically a pivotal year. Andre Reed excelled in Year 3, as did I, and I have faith it will happen for him.”

Johnson: D.J. Moore Must Maintain High Energy with Bills

Despite the hefty cost of a second-round pick, Johnson appreciates the veteran wide receiver D.J. Moore’s addition this offseason. Johnson believes Moore’s presence will significantly benefit the other offensive players.

“He’s a proven asset,” Johnson emphasized.

“He possesses all the skills. When you watch his film, it’s rare to see defenders press him because he’s already demonstrated an ability to defeat press coverage. This results in more off-coverage situations, which will allow Josh (Allen) to dissect defenses. D.J. Moore’s presence will create more opportunities for others due to the attention he commands.”

However, Johnson does have a caveat: he wants Moore to remain upbeat, even if he doesn’t receive a specific number of targets or catches in a game.

“An aspect to monitor with D.J. Moore is his energy,” Johnson remarked. “He’s joining a team that doesn’t necessarily rely on a single receiver, especially with Joshua and James Cook in play. With skilled minds like (Joe) Brady orchestrating the offense, it’s evident from last season’s performance that a successful offense can thrive without a lead playmaker.”

“He needs to maintain his energy at an elite level—acting as a leader—rather than focusing on personal stats like ‘I need 60 receptions.’ He must be mindful of his energy, as I noticed it would dip when he felt sidelined. A fantastic acquisition, but that’s certainly a factor to monitor for team dynamics in less favorable circumstances.” Johnson noted this was a transition he had to accept throughout his career.

He transitioned from Buffalo’s top receiver to a complementary role in San Francisco and San Diego during his last two seasons.

“That’s precisely why I can speak on it,” Johnson explained. “I would never criticize anyone for their conduct, especially on a team I support, but I must be honest from my perspective as an analyst. When you don’t get your share of targets, it’s easy to question, ‘Why was I brought in?’ It’s a familiar feeling for many players.” “However, the culture in Buffalo should be robust enough to keep him focused. In less cohesive environments, such issues might escalate. That’s the advantage of D.J. Moore joining Buffalo—a culture grounded in community and unity. We’ll see if he can navigate those moments when opportunities are scarce.”

Johnson: Bills Set to Adopt a More Aggressive Approach under Joe Brady

Johnson anticipates a mindset transformation now that Joe Brady has assumed the head coach position. He views Sean McDermott as a traditional coach who favored a conservative strategy due to his defensive background.

“Joe Brady isn’t reckless, but he will adopt a more aggressive approach that will likely allow Josh Allen and the playmakers to flourish,” Johnson observed. “The previous offensive strategy was calculated and conservative, while I believe Joe Brady will instill a more ferocious mentality across the board.”

Johnson believes that there will be no constraints on Brady and Allen this season.

“There are no additional voices in play; it’s solely Joe and Josh,” Johnson noted.

Johnson: Brandon Aiyuk Lacks Proper Mentorship

Johnson expressed his willingness to offer advice to Coleman and would be glad to connect with Brandon Aiyuk as well. A former teammate of Johnson’s suggested Aiyuk reach out, but that connection hasn’t materialized. Aiyuk’s relationship with the 49ers has been strained for years, and he’s anticipated to be released during the offseason.

“I reached out to Keon,” Johnson mentioned.

“I tagged him on social media, but he didn’t respond. It took a mutual acquaintance to facilitate our connection. Sometimes it boils down to having the right support system. Keon had that, and we eventually connected. However, as for Aiyuk, I’ve never met or spoken to him. One of my former teammates mentioned me to him and encouraged a connection, but it didn’t go through.” Having played for the 49ers in 2014, Johnson has advice for Aiyuk as he strives to revitalize his once-promising career.

“Surround yourself with the right friends, as it’s challenging to just sever ties, but it’s vital to direct your circle intentionally during the season,” Johnson advised. “Have your trainer, chef, body therapist, and barber involved. If you have kids, keep them close, but ensure it’s a deliberate effort for those eight months. That’s your starting point.” “He possesses the talent for the game, but it’s about making the right decisions. Sometimes we players get sidetracked. We get a paycheck every week and are on display, leading us to think we can do anything. That perception isn’t accurate. You need mentors. I don’t think he had the right support to assist him with crucial choices. My suggestion is to seek out the right people.”

The 49ers have shifted their wide receiver lineup, bringing in veterans Mike Evans and Christian Kirk. Johnson highlighted that signing Kirk to play in the slot will be a significant advantage for San Francisco.

“If you examine Kirk’s film, he’s undeniably a playmaker,” Johnson stated. “Target him, and he’ll capitalize on opportunities. He can create space and consistently make plays on third downs. I’ve witnessed him dismantle our Bills defense. If you’re in off-coverage, you might as well concede the first down because Kirk will find it.”

Johnson: Keenan Allen Mismanaged Last Season

Johnson, who played alongside a young Keenan Allen with the Chargers in 2015, remarked on how Allen’s career has aged well. Both receivers are recognized for their exceptional route-running and technical prowess.

“Keenan was always focused on mastering the game,” Johnson said.

“He constantly utilized his iPad and sought insights from other receivers. While he wasn’t necessarily the type to create space, he excelled at technique, akin to Jerry Rice. His dedication to study allowed him to blend dynamic movements into his routes. I knew he was exceptional.” Last year, the 33-year-old racked up 81 receptions for 777 yards and four touchdowns in Los Angeles.

“He’s a strategic advantage, an effortless solution,” Johnson added.

“He knows all the vulnerabilities and has faced every defense. That’s why he can achieve over 700 yards at 33, and beyond.” Johnson believes Allen could have garnered even greater statistics with different offensive leadership.

“Greg Roman’s approach isn’t geared towards a heavy passing offense,” Johnson noted.

“His utilization of Keenan was rather limited. From my experience with a Greg Roman offense, Keenan should have surpassed 1,000 yards, and they should have dominated that playoff game. They were sidetracked by unnecessary strategies.”

Johnson anticipates Allen, now a free agent, will be attracted to a potential change with Mike McDaniel coordinating the offense.

“He loves L.A., so I can envision him either re-signing with the Chargers or joining the Rams, especially if it keeps him in Los Angeles,” Johnson asserted.

“However, he also seems to have a connection with Davante (Adams). Joining the Rams for a year and possibly aiming for the Super Bowl while remaining in L.A. could appeal to him.”