In a gathering that highlighted camaraderie and connection, Buffalo Bills wide receiver Keon Coleman made a memorable appearance at the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Johnson in Louisiana. Coleman, who visited to discuss teamwork with U.S. Army personnel, brought a touch of the NFL to the armed forces.
During a lively Q&A session, one soldier threw a curveball question Coleman’s way, wondering if the Bills’ quarterback, Josh Allen, would pick up a cold call. Rising to the challenge, Coleman put a friendly wager on the line, promising 50 pushups if Allen didn’t answer.
To the delight of the troops, Allen did pick up, instantly becoming part of an impromptu FaceTime moment. As the soldiers erupted in cheers, Coleman shared the moment with Allen, explaining the call’s purpose. Ever the class act, Allen took the time to thank the soldiers for their service, showing gratitude and respect for the men and women in uniform.
Before hanging up, Coleman expressed his appreciation to Allen, reinforcing the strong bond between them with a heartfelt, “I appreciate you so much my guy. Love you.” The genuine exchange was a testament to the camaraderie and mutual respect within the Bills locker room.
The heartwarming interaction was captured and shared on social media by Coleman’s agent, Paul DeRousselle, who helped host the Q&A session. It was a moment not just for the soldiers but also connected back to Coleman’s roots, as Fort Johnson is roughly a stone’s throw from his hometown of Opelousas, Louisiana.
Notably, the fort carries historical weight, named in honor of Henry Johnson, a World War I Medal of Honor recipient. Johnson’s legacy as part of the all-Black 369th Infantry Regiment serves as a powerful reminder of bravery and perseverance.
This mix of sports, service, and community created an unforgettable experience for everyone involved, underscoring the powerful ties that bind people across fields and disciplines.