Bills Camp Day 6: The Keon Condundrum Continues — Talking Buffalo

Patrick Moran is joined by broadcaster Steve Berman to break down the biggest developments from the Buffalo Bills’ second-to-last training camp practice at St. John Fisher University.

The conversation begins with encouraging injury news as C.J. Gardner-Johnson returns to full participation much sooner than expected. Patrick explains why Gardner-Johnson’s versatility, athleticism, communication and edge make him one of the most important players on Buffalo’s defense.

The spotlight then turns to Keon Coleman’s frustrating inconsistency. Coleman produced several impressive catches and showed signs of improved route running, but another costly drop raised questions about whether Josh Allen and the Bills can trust him in critical situations. Despite the concerns, Coleman continues to receive extensive first-team work and remains firmly ahead of rookie Skyler Bell.

Patrick and Steve also discuss Tyler Bass returning to kicking duties, the developing cornerback situation and a less-than-encouraging camp from Max Hairston. IGB received a late opportunity with the starting defense and could potentially turn the expected competition into a legitimate battle.

Additional observations include strong practices from Buffalo’s defensive tackles, Jude Bowry emerging in the swing-tackle competition, Josh Palmer quietly enjoying an excellent camp and Mitchell Trubisky receiving second-team quarterback reps ahead of Kyle Allen.

Key Takeaways

C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s rapid return is excellent news for a defense that lacks a comparable replacement at safety.
Keon Coleman looks improved physically and as a route runner, but his recurring drops continue to create major trust concerns.
Max Hairston has experienced an uneven camp, potentially leaving an opening for IGB.
Josh Palmer has quietly been one of Buffalo’s most consistent and productive offensive players.
Buffalo’s biggest unanswered questions remain its pass rush and ability to hold up at cornerback..

The Talking Buffalo online merch store is now live! You can purchase t shirts, hoodies, zip ups, crewnecks and polos in a couple of different styles and colors. Visit our online page for pricing and options and while there, check out Buf on Weck for tons of cool gear!

Please be sure to subscribe to Talking Buffalo on the audio side, even if you usually watch the show via YouTube. Several of the links to follow Talking Buffalo can be found right here.

Also if you’re not yet subscribed to Talking Buffalo on YouTube, please do so and be sure to hit the LIKE button on the videos, it really helps with the algorithm!

♦♦♦♦♦

Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast

Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

Instagram: @PatrickMoranTB

Facebook: Talking Buffalo Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.