Bills bench Keon Coleman for discipline to build consistency

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Keon Coleman was held out of the opening series of Sunday’s 23-20 loss to the New England Patriots as a disciplinary measure, head coach Sean McDermott said Monday, a move the coach described as intended to reinforce professionalism and consistency. McDermott did not disclose specific details of the incident from the practice week that prompted the benching, calling it “head coach discipline” and saying the team expects more from the second-year player.

Coleman returned to the game after the first series and finished with four catches for 23 yards and a touchdown, but he also lost a fumble near the Bills 11-yard line that led to New England’s opening points. The turnover was one of three Buffalo committed in the game and contributed to a late rally that ultimately fell short. Coleman has 21 receptions for 226 yards and two touchdowns this season.

McDermott framed the benching as part of a broader effort to build “growth, maturation, that leads to consistency,” saying the organization aims to help young players develop into professionals. Offensive coordinator Joe Brady similarly emphasized that Coleman's talent is not in question but that his...