Monte Coleman, Washington Commanders Legend and UAPB Coach, Dies at 68
Monte Coleman, a former National Football League (NFL) linebacker who played for the Washington Commanders (formerly Washington Redskins) and later coached the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), has died at the age of 68. The university and the Commanders announced his death on Sunday; no cause was provided.
Career Highlights
- Played all 16 NFL seasons (1979–1994) with Washington, appearing in 215 regular-season games, second in franchise history.
- Won three Super Bowls as a player (Super Bowls XVII, XXII, XXVI).
- Ranks second in franchise history in solo tackles.
- Inducted into the team's Ring of Honor.
- Drafted in the 11th round of the 1979 NFL draft out of Central Arkansas, where he was a walk-on.
Coaching Career
- Served as linebackers coach at UAPB.
- Became head coach in 2008 and led the program for 10 seasons.
- Won the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) championship in 2012.
Statements
"One of the greatest players in Washington history" and a "pillar of our championship defenses."
— Josh Harris, controlling owner of the Commanders
Coleman represented "excellence, integrity, and a relentless commitment to developing our student-athletes."
— Chris Robinson, UAPB athletic director
Coleman was born November 4, 1957, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.