Former Washington Commanders linebacker and HBCU coach Monte Coleman has passed away. The news was shared by the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where he served as a head coach. Coleman was 68.
“Coach Coleman embodied excellence and integrity in everything he did,” said UAPB Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Chris Robinson in a statement. “His legacy lives on not just in football, but in the countless young men he helped guide.”
Coleman led the Golden Lions to success during his tenure with the program. He eventually led the Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions football to an HBCU National Championship in 2012. He served as head coach from 2008-2017, previously working as a linebackers coach and defensive coordinator for the team from 2003-2007.
Coleman built a 16-year NFL career with Washington, appearing in more than 200 games and contributing to three Super Bowl championship teams, achievements that later earned him a place in the franchise’s Ring of Fame. His rise to that level began at the University of Central Arkansas, where he joined the program as a walk-on after starring at Pine Bluff High School, steadily working his way into a professional opportunity.
He also made history as the program’s first NFL Draft selection during its NAIA era. During his collegiate career, he also set a school record at the time with 22 interceptions. By the time Monte Coleman wrapped up his NFL career following the 1994 season, he had compiled 1,002 total tackles and 49.5 sacks. He also made an impact in coverage, recording 17 interceptions, three of which he returned for touchdowns.
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