Former Washington linebacker Monte Coleman has died at the age of 68, the team announced on Sunday. A cause of death was not disclosed.
We mourn the loss of one of the greatest to ever suit up in the Burgundy & Gold, Monte Coleman
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Our heartfelt condolences are with his loved ones pic.twitter.com/m5F1rT0mKG
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) April 26, 2026
“Monte Coleman was one of the greatest players in Washington history,” Managing Partner Josh Harris said in the statement. “He was one of the pillars of our championship defenses having played for all three Super Bowl-winning teams. His durability and leadership set the standard for what it meant to suit up for the Burgundy & Gold.”
Coleman played all 16 of his seasons with Washington, winning Super Bowls in 1982, 1987, and 1991. He racked up 1,002 total tackles, 49.5 sacks, 17 interceptions and 13 forced fumbles across his NFL career.
He ranks 2nd on the team’s all-time games played list behind only Darrell Green and was inducted into the team’s Ring of Fame in 2015.
Coleman played college football at the University of Central Arkansas and returned to the state after retiring from the NFL. He worked his way up the coaching staff at Arkansas Pine Bluff and became head coach in 2008.
They went on to win the SWAC title in 2012 and his contract expired in 2017.
James Parker contributed to this story.
