Full Breakdown
Monte Coleman, Three-Time Super Bowl Champion and Washington Legend, Dies at 68
4/27/2026, 12:23:04 PM
Death Announcement
Monte Coleman, a three-time Super Bowl champion and Washington franchise icon, died on Sunday at age 68. The Washington Commanders announced his passing, and UAPB, where he was head football coach from 2008 to 2017, issued a statement. No cause of death was disclosed.
Playing Career and Coaching Path
Coleman was selected in the 11th round of the 1979 NFL Draft after a record-setting safety career at the University of Central Arkansas (22 interceptions). He converted to linebacker and spent 16 seasons (1979-1994) with Washington, playing on three Super Bowl-winning teams under Joe Gibbs. After retirement, he coached at Arkansas-Pine Bluff, winning a Southwestern Athletic Conference title in 2012.
Key Figures and Affiliations
- Washington Commanders – drafted Coleman and inducted him into the Ring of Fame (2015).
- Josh Harris – Commanders owner who issued a tribute.
- University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) – where Coleman coached and won a SWAC championship.
- Bobby Beathard – former Redskins GM who scouted Coleman in 1979.
Career Statistics
- 215 games played (second-most in franchise history).
- 999 solo tackles (second-all-time).
- 49.5 sacks (sixth in franchise history).
- 17 interceptions (tied for 19th).
Official Statements
Commanders owner Josh Harris called Coleman “one of the greatest players in Washington history” and a “pillar of our championship defenses,” highlighting his durability and leadership. UAPB Vice Chancellor Chris Robinson praised his “excellence, integrity, and relentless commitment to developing our student-athletes.” Former GM Bobby Beathard recalled scouting him for his size and football intelligence. Former teammate Mark Murphy described him as “the most gifted athlete” he ever played with.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Monte Coleman was one of the greatest players in Washington history,” — Josh Harris, Commanders owner
- “Coach Coleman represented everything we strive for at UAPB excellence, integrity, and a relentless commitment to developing our student-athletes,” — Chris Robinson, UAPB Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics
- “may have been the most gifted athlete that I played with” — Mark Murphy, former Washington safety
- “ride on his back up and down as he did push-ups.” — Dave Butz, former Washington defensive tackle
Impact and Legacy
Coleman’s durability, versatility, and leadership defined Washington’s defense during its championship era. At UAPB he guided athletes to a conference title and earned community honors, including the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (1998) and the franchise’s “70 Greatest” list. His passing invites reflection on a career that spanned professional triumph and mentorship.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
All sources agree on Coleman’s age and career milestones, but none disclose the cause of death, leaving that detail unconfirmed.
