Story perspectives

Former Commanders Star Monte Coleman Dies at 68

4/28/2026

Summary

Monte Coleman Dies

Monte Coleman, former Washington Commanders linebacker, died at 68, announced by the Commanders and Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
He spent 16 seasons (1979-1994) with Washington, playing 215 regular-season games.
Coleman logged 1,002 tackles, 49.5 sacks, 17 interceptions and four defensive touchdowns, helping win Super Bowls in 1982, 1987 and 1991.
He coached Arkansas-Pine Bluff (2008-2017), captured the 2012 SWAC title, and Josh Harris called him one of Washington’s greatest players.

Summary

Monte Coleman Petition

A petition was launched to support Monte Coleman's Pro Football Hall of Fame induction after his death.
He served as executive director of the Achievement and Responsibility (SOAR) program, mentoring youth in Pine Bluff.
He acted as an assistant pastor at a local church, integrating faith and leadership.
He was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame in 1998, setting a record with 22 interceptions as a walk-on safety.

History

Historical Context

Monte Coleman, who recorded 1,002 career tackles and earned three Super Bowl rings (1983, 1988, 1992), is now the focus of a Hall-of-Fame petition. His legacy ties to Washington’s breakthrough 1982 strike-shortened season, when the Redskins posted an 8-1 NFC record and won Super Bowl XVII in January 1983, cementing the franchise’s rise to national prominence.

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Monte Coleman Dies

Monte Coleman, former Washington Commanders linebacker, died at 68, announced by the Commanders and Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
He spent 16 seasons (1979-1994) with Washington, playing 215 regular-season games.
Coleman logged 1,002 tackles, 49.5 sacks, 17 interceptions and four defensive touchdowns, helping win Super Bowls in 1982, 1987 and 1991.
He coached Arkansas-Pine Bluff (2008-2017), captured the 2012 SWAC title, and Josh Harris called him one of Washington’s greatest players.

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