Monte Coleman, who was a Super Bowl champion and coach at Arkansas-Pine Bluff, has died, the school announced.
“Coach Coleman represented everything we strive for at UAPB — excellence, integrity and a relentless commitment to developing our student-athletes,” UAPB Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Chris Robinson said in a statement. “His legacy is not only written in championships and honors, but in the lives he changed every single day.”
Coleman was an Arkansas legend
A product of Pine Bluff High School, Coleman began his collegiate career as a walk-on at the University of Central Arkansas, where his determination helped him develop into a standout player. He later carved out one of the most durable and respected careers of his era in the NFL, appearing in more than 200 games while helping lead Washington to victories in Super Bowls XVII, XXII and XXVI.
His professional accomplishments earned him a place in the franchise’s Ring of Fame, recognizing him among the organization’s all-time greats.
Monte Coleman turned UAPB into a champion
After retiring from the NFL, Coleman returned to his roots in Arkansas and transitioned into coaching, eventually leading the Golden Lions program. His most notable season came in 2012, when he guided UAPB to an HBCU national championship, one of the program’s signature achievements.
He went 40-71 overall at Arkansas-Pine Bluff in 10 seasons at the helm.
Beyond his success on the field, Coleman was widely regarded as a mentor to his players, emphasizing discipline, accountability and personal growth.
Coleman’s influence extended well beyond wins and accolades, shaping generations of student-athletes and leaving a lasting imprint on UAPB and the broader football community.
