Legendary Washington coach Joe Gibbs remembers Monte Coleman

While the NFL world has focused on the 2026 NFL Draft this week, it's been a difficult few days for the Washington Commanders. On Sunday, Washington lost a franchise legend when former linebacker Monte Coleman died. He was 68.

An 11th-round pick back in the 1979 NFL Draft, Coleman would go on to play 16 NFL seasons — all with the Redskins. He played on four Super Bowl teams and was a three-time Super Bowl champion. Coleman wasn't just on those teams; he was a key defender for years. Coleman was one of the NFL's most athletic linebackers throughout his career. That type of skill set would make him valuable in today's NFL.

The loss of Coleman has impacted Washington fans and several legendary former Redskins. Tributes have poured in for Coleman, including from Commanders Wire. It's almost impossible to encapsulate what Coleman meant to many of his former teammates, coaches and the fans. Not only was Coleman a terrific player, but an honorable man.

On Wednesday, Hall of Fame Washington coach Joe Gibbs weighed in on Coleman's passing.

"Monte meant so much to the Washington community," Gibbs wrote. "He was a fan favorite. He played his entire 16-year career with us, and only Darrell (Green) played in more games in franchise history. He was a key part of all our Super Bowl teams. He was really respected by his teammates, leading by example through his preparation and his workout routines. He really had a tremendous work ethic. He applied all those same qualities into his coaching at University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. But more impressive than all of that is the type of person that Monte was. He truly was well liked by everyone he came into contact with. We are praying for his wife, Yvette, and his children."

Others, such as Joe Jacoby, Joe Theismann, Charles Mann and Doc Walker, all Coleman this week. Coleman is a member of Washington's Ring of Fame and was also named one of the franchise's 80 greatest players.