Monte Coleman, 3-Time Super Bowl Champ & Ex-UAPB Coach Dies at 68
Monte Coleman, a three‑time Super Bowl champion and a long‑time figure in Arkansas‑Pine Bluff athletics, died on April 26, 2026 at the age of 68, according to an official university announcement.
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) confirmed that Coleman served as the Golden Lions’ head football coach for ten seasons, guiding the program to a Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) championship appearance in 2012.
UAPB vice chancellor and director of athletics Chris Robinson praised Coleman’s “excellence, integrity, and relentless commitment to developing our student‑athletes” in a news release, noting that his legacy extends beyond trophies to the daily impact he had on young men.
Born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Coleman began his football journey at Central Arkansas, where he arrived as a walk‑on and eventually became the first player from the program ever selected in the NFL Draft.
The Washington Redskins selected Coleman in the 11th round of the 1979 NFL Draft, and he spent his entire 16‑year professional career with the franchise, which later became the Washington Commanders.
During his tenure, Coleman contributed to three Super Bowl victories, appearing in the championship games that concluded the 1982, 1987, and 1991 seasons.
Statistically, Coleman amassed 1,002 total tackles, 49.5 sacks, 17 interceptions, and 13 forced fumbles, establishing himself as a versatile and durable linebacker in Washington’s storied defenses.
| Stat Category | Total | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tackles | 1,002 | Career total |
| Sacks | 49.5 | Career total |
| Interceptions | 17 | Career total |
| Forced Fumbles | 13 | Career total |
Before transitioning to linebacker, Coleman spent his first three NFL seasons playing safety, a move that highlighted his athletic adaptability and football intelligence.
His switch to linebacker coincided with Washington’s emergence as a defensive powerhouse, and his presence helped anchor units that consistently ranked among the league’s best in run stopping and pass rush.
Commanders managing partner Josh Harris issued a statement calling Coleman “one of the greatest players in Washington history” and emphasizing his role as a pillar of the three championship defenses.
In addition to his on‑field achievements, Coleman’s durability was remarkable; he appeared in 224 regular‑season games, missing only a handful of contests over a 16‑year span.
After retiring from the NFL, Coleman returned to his home state, eventually accepting the head coaching position at UAPB, where he applied the same work ethic and leadership principles that defined his professional career.
Under his guidance, the Golden Lions posted multiple winning seasons, and the 2012 run to the SWAC championship underscored his ability to translate NFL experience into collegiate success.
In 2015, the Washington Commanders inducted Coleman into their Ring of Fame, cementing his status among the franchise’s elite and honoring his contributions to three title teams.
His induction ceremony highlighted not only his statistical output but also his reputation as a locker‑room leader who set the tone for preparation and accountability.
The impact of Coleman’s death resonated across the football community, with former teammates, coaches, and players sharing tributes that emphasized his mentorship and character.
Social media posts from the Washington Commanders organization expressed heartfelt condolences, describing him as “one of the greatest to ever suit up in the Burgundy & Gold.”
Monte Coleman’s journey from a walk‑on at Central Arkansas to a Hall of Fame‑level NFL career and a respected collegiate coach illustrates a rare blend of perseverance, talent, and dedication.
His legacy will continue to influence aspiring athletes at UAPB and beyond, serving as a blueprint for how hard work and integrity can translate into lasting success on and off the field.
