Full Breakdown
Monte Coleman, Three-Time Super Bowl Champion and UAPB Coach, Dies at 68
4/28/2026, 5:21:02 AM
Death Announcement
Monte Coleman died on April 26, 2026, at age 68. The Washington Commanders and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) confirmed the death; no cause was disclosed.
Career Overview
A Pine Bluff, Arkansas native, Coleman was selected in the 11th round of the 1979 NFL Draft out of the University of Central Arkansas, becoming the school’s first draftee. He spent 16 seasons (1979-1994) with Washington, playing 215 regular-season games (second-most in franchise history behind Darrell Green) and starting 62. Career totals include 999 solo tackles (1,002 total), 49.5 sacks, 17 interceptions (three returned for touchdowns), 13 forced fumbles and 14 recoveries. He led the league with 118 tackles in 1980 and earned three Super Bowl rings (XVII, XXII, XXVI). After retirement he coached at UAPB, serving as head coach from 2008-2017 and guiding the Golden Lions to a SWAC championship and an HBCU national title in 2012. Honors include the Commanders Ring of Fame (2015), Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (1998), Washingtonian of the Year (1996) and inclusion on the franchise’s 70-Greatest list.
Official Statements
Josh Harris, Commanders managing partner, called Coleman “one of the greatest players in Washington history” and praised his durability and leadership. Chris Robinson, UAPB Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics, said Coleman embodied “excellence, integrity, and a relentless commitment to developing our student-athletes.” The UAPB Department of Athletics described him as a “cornerstone of excellence both on and off the field” whose influence will endure.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources note that a cause of death was not released. Statistical reports differ on total versus solo tackle counts (1,002 total vs. 999 solo) and on the retirement year (1994 versus 1995). No dissenting commentary appears in the coverage.
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
- “He may not have invented the position of nickel linebacker,” — Charley Casserly, former Washington general manager
Impact and Legacy
Coleman’s durability anchored Washington’s defense during its championship era, setting a standard for future linebackers. At UAPB, his mentorship elevated the football program and contributed to student development, community outreach, and national recognition. His numerous honors reflect both athletic achievement and civic contribution.
What’s Next
Funeral details have not been released. Tributes from former teammates, coaches and community leaders are expected, and informal discussions about Hall of Fame candidacy have emerged among fans.
