Former NFL standout, UAPB coach Monte Coleman dies at 68

Former NFL linebacker and college coach Monte Coleman has died at the age of 68.His death was announced Sunday by the Washington Commanders and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. No cause of death has been released.

Coleman, a Pine Bluff native, was born Nov. 4, 1957, and began his football career as a walk-on at University of Central Arkansas. He was selected in the 11th round of the 1979 NFL Draft by Washington and went on to spend his entire 16-year career with the franchise.

During his time in the NFL, Coleman played in 215 regular-season games and was part of three Super Bowl championship teams. He remains among the franchise leaders in games played and solo tackles and is a member of the team’s Ring of Honor.

Following his playing career, Coleman returned to Arkansas, serving as an assistant coach and later head coach at UAPB. He led the program for 10 seasons and guided the Golden Lions to a Southwestern Athletic Conference championship in 2012.

University officials say Coleman’s impact extended beyond the field through his work with student-athletes during his coaching career.

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