Monte Coleman, a linebacker who captured three Super Bowl titles during his 16-year career with Washington’s NFL franchise, passed away Sunday at the age of 68.
Neither the Washington Commanders nor Arkansas Pine Bluff University disclosed the cause of Coleman’s death. Coleman served as head football coach at his alma mater from 2008 through 2017, compiling a 40-71 record. Under his leadership, the Golden Lions claimed the Southwestern Athletic Conference championship in 2012 and earned the Boxtorow HBCU Division I coaches’ national title that same year.
“Coach Coleman represented everything we strive for at UAPB — excellence, integrity, and a relentless commitment to developing our student-athletes,” stated UAPB athletic director Chris Robinson. “His legacy is not only written in championships and honors, but in the lives he changed every single day.”
Coleman made history as the first player ever selected from Central Arkansas when Washington chose him in the 11th round of the 1979 NFL Draft, which featured 12 rounds at that time.
Throughout his career spanning from 1979 to 1994, Coleman appeared in 215 regular-season contests with 62 starts, accumulating 1,002 tackles (999 unassisted), 49.5 quarterback sacks, 17 interceptions with three returned for scores, 13 forced fumbles, and 14 fumble recoveries.
His playoff experience included 21 games with five starts, where he registered five tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two picks.
Washington captured Super Bowl victories in 1982, 1987, and 1991, while also reaching the championship game in 1983.
“Monte Coleman was one of the greatest players in Washington history,” declared Commanders owner Josh Harris. “He was one of the pillars of our championship defenses having played for all three Super Bowl-winning teams. His durability and leadership set the standard for what it meant to suit up for the Burgundy & Gold.”
Coleman holds the second-highest marks in franchise history for total games played and solo tackles, while ranking sixth in sacks.
The Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame welcomed Coleman in 1998, and Washington honored him with induction into their Ring of Fame in 2015.
“That was one of the greatest accolades I’ve ever received,” Coleman reflected on his Washington recognition. “To be listed among those players, I will always cherish that. That means a whole lot to me.”
Coleman leaves behind his wife Yvette, his partner of 43 years, and five children: Jasmine, Kyndall, Kyle, Corey, and Londie.
