A football icon in Washington, Monte Coleman, has passed away at the age of 68, according to recent reports.

During his impressive 16-year tenure with the team once known as the Washington Redskins, Coleman secured three Super Bowl victories. Nearly a decade after hanging up his cleats, he took on the role of coach at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, his hometown institution.

The university announced the somber news on Sunday, commemorating him as a ‘respected leader whose contributions to football and the lives he touched will resonate for generations to come.’ The details surrounding his death remain undisclosed.

In their statement, UAPB hailed Coleman as a ‘pillar of excellence both on and off the field,’ highlighting a legacy characterized by resilience, leadership, and championship triumphs.

The statement further noted that aside from his victories and honors, Coleman served as a mentor, father figure, and role model to his players, imparting values that transcended the sport. His guidance profoundly shaped many young men who donned the Golden Lion jersey.

‘The UAPB family extends its deepest condolences to the Coleman family, former players, colleagues, and all who were impacted by his extraordinary life and career.’

Washington football legend Monte Coleman has died at the age of 68, it has been announced

The linebacker later spent a decade as head coach of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff 

Funeral arrangements and memorial service information will be announced at a later time, the school added.

Coleman was a standout athlete at Pine Bluff High School before impressing on the football field at the University of Central Arkansas. Washington then came calling in 1979, when the Redskins selected him with the 289th pick in the 11th round of the NFL Draft.

The linebacker went on to become one of the most respected of his era, playing an integral role in three Super Bowl victories during his 16 years in Washington and racking up over 200 appearances.

In 2015, he earned a place in the prestigious Washington Commanders Ring of Fame for his achievements with the team.

‘We mourn the loss of one of the greatest to ever suit up in the Burgundy & Gold, Monte Coleman,’ the Washington Commanders posted on X after learning of Coleman’s death. ‘Our heartfelt condolences are with his loved ones’.

‘Monte Coleman was one of the greatest players in Washington history,’ Commanders Managing Partner Josh Harris said in his own 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.

‘Monte played all 16 seasons in Washington and ranks second in games played and fourth in sacks all-time earning him a place in the Washington Ring of Fame. Named the Washingtonian of the Year in 1996, Monte made a major impact in our community with his philanthropic work and community service.

‘Monte will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Coleman family, his friends and all who knew him. May his memory be a blessing.’

Coleman won three Super Bowls in 16 years with the formerly-named Washington Redskins

After calling time on his NFL career in 1994, Coleman ventured into coaching nine years later as a linebackers coach for the Arkansas–Pine Bluff Golden Lions, before being promoted to defensive coordinator three years later.

He eventually took on the head-coaching job in 2008 and spent 10 seasons in the role, winning the 2012 Southwestern Athletic Conference.

‘Coach Coleman represented everything we strive for at UAPB excellence, integrity, and a relentless commitment to developing our student-athletes,’ said UAPB Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Chris Robinson. 

‘His legacy is not only written in championships and honors, but in the lives he changed every single day.’ 

Gabe McDonald, who played under Coleman at UAPB, shared photos of them together on X and wrote: ‘Only coach that believed in me and gave me the chance to live out my dream of playing D1 ball, an opportunity I’m forever grateful for.

‘Fly high, Coach Coleman. You’ll be truly missed’.

SAN FRANCISCO — Casey Schmitt proved his knack for high-pressure moments once more.

Following his game-winning homer to left field the previous day, Schmitt stepped up again, delivering a pivotal blow to the Marlins’ bullpen. This time, he smashed a three-run homer to left in the seventh inning, transforming a tie into a decisive lead for the Giants, who eventually clinched a 6-3 victory and took the three-game series.

Schmitt’s timely contribution ensured that the Giants maximized the longest outing of Landen Roupp’s career. Roupp, who took the mound into the eighth inning for the first time, received a heartfelt standing ovation as he exited with two outs, solidifying his performance and the team’s triumph.

The heroics ensured the longest start of Landen Roupp’s career didn’t go to waste.

Roupp took the mound to start the eighth inning for the first time in his career and was serenaded by a standing ovation as he walked back to the dugout with two outs.

The walk that ended his outing was only the fourth Marlins batter to reach base against him and snapped a streak of 18 retired in a row.

The only blip on Roupp’s pitching line came in a 29-pitch second inning, when he allowed the first two batters to reach. It looked like he was going to work out of the jam, but after getting Graham Pauley down 0-2 with two outs, the Marlins’ No. 8 hitter punished a curveball over the brick wall in right field that cashed in their only base runners until the eighth inning.

It appeared the early 3-0 lead would hold up as the Giants stranded runners in scoring position twice in the first five innings. But Rafael Devers woke up with an RBI double to get them on the board in the sixth, and Schmitt did the rest the following inning.

What it means

The Giants earned their second come-from-behind win in as many games to finish the homestand 4-2 and win their third series in a row. San Francisco had been 1-13 when its opponent scored first before prevailing the past two games.

Who’s hot

Jung Hoo Lee moved into the leadoff spot for the first time since the opening series of the season and kept on raking with his fourth multi-hit effort of the six-game homestand.

The Giants weren’t able to capitalize on his triple off the brick wall in right field to begin the game, but Lee came around to score — the 100th run of his career — after an opposite-field single in the third inning. He led off the seventh with his fourth hit of the afternoon and watched Schmitt’s home run leave the yard as he rounded the bases.

Altogether, the Giants outfielders combined to bat .367 over the course of the home stand, with seven extra-base hits, including home runs from each of Lee, Heliot Ramos and Drew Gilbert.

Entering the homestand, San Francisco’s outfielders had been the third-worst group in the majors, measured by FanGraphs WAR.

Who’s not

Willy Adames got his first day off of the season. Together with Monday’s day off in Philadelphia, manager Tony Vitello is hopeful the downtime can snap Adames out of an 0-for-21 funk.

San Francisco managed to take four of six games on the home stand despite getting almost nothing from the three bats expected to anchor the middle of its lineup. Rafael Devers’ double that drove in Casey Schmitt and made it 3-2 in the sixth was the first RBI of the entire home stand from himself, Adames or Matt Chapman, who combined to go 8-for-61 (.131) with 23 strikeouts.

Up next

The Giants are off Monday before beginning a six-game road trip against the Phillies and Rays. They took two of three from the Phils when they visited San Francisco earlier this month, kicking off a 10-game losing streak that Philadelphia just snapped out of this weekend.

Amidst this diplomatic deadlock, there are signs of upheaval within Iran’s negotiating team. Reports indicate that Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, a known hardliner, is poised to be replaced by a seasoned conservative who has historically opposed nuclear concessions.

According to Iran International, Saeed Jalili, an influential figure at 60 years old, is expected to take over from Ghalibaf. Jalili currently leads what is often referred to as a “shadow government” and is anticipated to step into Ghalibaf’s role following his abrupt exit due to internal disagreements.

Jalili is also at the helm of the Stability Front (Paydari), a faction recognized for its staunch ultra-conservatism within Iran. This group is often described as a stronghold of hardline principles.

Ali Safavi, an official with the Iranian opposition group National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), informed Fox News Digital that Jalili has transformed from a nuclear negotiator into a significant player within the regime’s inner circles.

Jalili Saeed is expected to succeed Ghalibaf following his sudden departure amid internal disputes. (Majid Saeedi/Getty Images)

Ghalibaf was reportedly forced to step down after attempting to bring the nuclear issue into talks with Washington, a move that triggered backlash within Iran’s political establishment.

President Donald Trump had called off plans for U.S. envoys to travel to Pakistan for peace talks with Iran on April 25.

The rivalry between Jalili and Ghalibaf is said to span more than a decade and intensified during the 2024 elections, when Jalili refused to step aside, contributing to the victory of President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Safavi said, “The increased visibility of latent divisions stems from recurring nationwide uprisings, deep economic crises and the pressures of war, all of which have intensified internal feuding.

“Far from signaling transformation, these developments reflect accelerating erosion and mounting pressure, deepening fractures and leaving the regime ever weaker and more vulnerable,” he added.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf speaks during a press conference in Tehran, Iran, Nov. 27, 2024. (Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS)

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is also seeking a continued leading role in negotiations, highlighting competing centers of influence over Iran’s diplomatic strategy, sources said.

Araghchi is in Islamabad, Pakistan, after returning from a short trip to Muscat, Oman, where he is holding high-level diplomatic talks on the conflict. Reports indicate Araghchi will travel to Moscow.

Jalili’s potential appointment, however, signals a hardening of Iran’s stance, with more emphasis on resistance over compromise.

“Within this regime, there are a number of constants espoused by all factions,” Safavi said before highlighting that these were “repression, the export of terrorism and the pursuit of nuclear weapons.”

“The factions all ultimately move along a common path: the preservation of power. They differ in methods, not in objectives,” Safavi cautioned.

Jalili, meanwhile, served as Iran’s top nuclear negotiator from 2007 to 2013 under President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and later ran for president three times. (Morteza Nikoubazl/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Jalili, meanwhile, served as Iran’s top nuclear negotiator from 2007 to 2013 under President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and later ran for president three times. He also served as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council.

A former member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Jalili lost his right leg at 21 during the Iran-Iraq War, earning him the title of “Living Martyr”.

The Paydari Front, which he is associated with, opposes engagement with the West — particularly the 2015 nuclear deal — and advocates a doctrine of “active resistance.”

During Hassan Rouhani’s presidency, Jalili also established a “shadow government” to counter the administration’s policies, especially the nuclear deal.

On April 7, he wrote on X: “Yes — ‘infrastructure’ is on the verge of collapse; the infrastructure of domination and the American order. And after that, a better foundation will be built.”

A day earlier, he posted: “‘Shut up’ is not the appropriate response to Trump’s ramblings; let him speak more. Nothing is more effective in laying bare the true nature of the United States than Trump’s outbursts.”

“In dealing with this regime,” Safavi said, “we must bear in mind that in the 45 years since the mullahs consolidated their rule in 1981 by crushing all peaceful political life, so-called reformists have governed for nearly half that time — presiding over some of its darkest crimes.”

“These include the 1988 massacre of 30,000 political prisoners, the assassination of dissidents abroad, the chain murders of intellectuals inside Iran and the relentless pursuit of nuclear weapons.”

Almost two and a half centuries after the United States declared its independence, King Charles III is set to visit Washington this week. His trip is aimed at reinforcing the ‘Special Relationship’ between the U.S. and the United Kingdom amidst current national challenges.

Accompanied by Queen Camilla, King Charles III will arrive on Monday for a state visit with President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, marking a significant diplomatic engagement.

In light of the security breach during last night’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner, Buckingham Palace released a statement assuring that the King is being kept up to date on the situation and is relieved to know that the President, First Lady, and attendees are safe.

Sir Christian Turner, the British ambassador to the United States, commented on Sunday that they are ‘absolutely expecting’ the royal visit. He added, “It’s very British, keep calm and carry on.”

President Trump addressed the incident on Fox News this morning, confirming that the visit will proceed as scheduled. When questioned about any potential changes to the itinerary or security measures, he praised King Charles as a “great guy” and expressed anticipation for the historic visit.

From April 27 to April 30, the nation’s capital will be transformed into a theater of rigid protocol and red-carpet pageantry. The significance of the visit is underscored by the King’s preparation to address lawmakers – a feat managed only once before by his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in 1991.

Alison Cheperdak, a former Trump White House aide and founder of Elevate Etiquette, notes that the symbolism of this visit is extraordinary given that the descendant of the King America broke away from is coming to mark the anniversary of that very separation. Cheperdak, who is advising the Trumps on the intricate ‘dos and don’ts’ of royal interaction, describes the visit as reconciliation expressed through ceremony. 

Britain’s King Charles and Queen Camilla stand with President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the state banquet at Windsor Castle back in September 2025

Trump shakes hands with Britain’s King Charles, as Trump departs Windsor Castle during his last visit

Queen Elizabeth is photographed wearing the brooch (right side) that was gifted to her by First Lady Michelle Obama as President Donald Trump arrived in the United Kingdom for their first meeting 

Trump listens as Britain’s King Charles speaks during the state banquet at Windsor Castle, Berkshire, on day one of Trump and Melania’s second state visit to the UK last year

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge leave Kensington Palace to attend the State Banquet for the US State Visit at Buckingham Palace

Tables are set for the Return Dinner at Winfield House, the residence of the Ambassador of the US to the UK, attended by Trump, his wife Melania and hosted by The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, as part of his state visit to the UK

However, beneath the grand gestures of the 21-gun salute – the highest ceremonial honor the United States can offer – lies a potential minefield of social gaffes. 

The District’s political elite are being quietly reminded of one important rule: do not initiate physical contact. Cheperdak warns that even well-intentioned gestures can feel out of place under such formal circumstances. 

‘Don’t initiate physical contact,’ Cheperdak warns, noting that even well–intentioned gestures can feel out of place. This includes the modern obsession with social media; unlike US politicians, the royals ‘intentionally don’t typically take selfies, sign autographs, or express personal opinions.’

Though historically, Trump has a penchant for breaking those specific rules with foreign leaders.

He isn’t the only one: the ‘no–touch’ rule was famously tested in 2009 when Michelle Obama placed an arm around the Queen.

While Americans are not required to bow or curtsy, Cheperdak suggests a ‘small nod or brief curtsy is a gracious gesture’ for those wishing to bridge the 250–year–old gap with style.

As for the King’s arrival on the South Lawn, it will be a ‘carefully choreographed ceremony’ where even the music is a lesson in diplomacy. 

According to protocol, ‘God Save the King’ is played first as a courtesy to the visiting sovereign, followed by ‘The Star–Spangled Banner.’

For those lucky enough to secure an invitation to the April 28 White House State Banquet, the dress code is expected to be black tie – a ‘subtle but telling detail’ that suggests a slightly more relaxed atmosphere than the white–tie galas of the past.

Yet, some traditions remain immovable. Guests must address the King as ‘Your Majesty’ initially, then ‘Sir,’ and are cautioned: ‘Don’t walk in front of the King.’

While the late Queen Elizabeth II was famous for her ‘fashion diplomacy,’ all eyes will be on Queen Camilla’s jewelry box. 

‘Tiaras are worn only after 6 p.m., and only at the most formal occasions,’ says Cheperdak. ‘But what the Queen chooses will likely carry meaning beyond aesthetics.’

The devil has always been in the details.

Queen Elizabeth II turned ‘brooch diplomacy’ into a masterclass in messaging. Her most famous ‘silent act of resistance’ was wearing a pin gifted by Michelle Obama to meet President Trump in 2018.

Cheperdak is certified in British and North American etiquette – turning all her skills into a thriving consultancy called Elevate Etiquette

State Banquet hosted by King Charles III and members of the Royal Family at Windsor Castle during the state visit by President Trump back in 2025

The ‘no–touch’ rule was famously tested in 2009 when Michelle Obama placed an arm around the Queen (Photo by Shutterstock)

A flashback to June 2019, inside Winfield House in London. Melania Trump pictured in a  floor length scarlet Givenchy gown to host a reciprocal dinner for the British Royal Family during their first term in office

King Charles III with President Trump at Windsor Castle before formally saying goodbye to the president on day two of their state visit to the UK last year

250 years after America famously broke ties with the British Crown, the King is coming back to reclaim the ‘Special Relationship.’ King Charles III and Queen Camilla will arrive tomorrow for a high–stakes royal visit

However, beneath the grand gestures of the 21–gun salute – the ‘highest ceremonial honor the United States can offer’ – lies a potential minefield of social gaffes

For those lucky enough to secure an invitation to the April 28 White House State Banquet, the dress code is expected to be black tie – a ‘subtle but telling detail’ that suggests a slightly more relaxed atmosphere than the white–tie galas of the past

In perhaps one surprising twist for the British royal visit, the traditional garden party – a staple of Buckingham Palace – comes with a modern American style guide.

Leaked invitations detail ‘hats not encouraged’ guidance, which Cheperdak calls ‘quite unusual,’ given that headwear is usually a defining feature of such events.

‘It feels like a thoughtful adjustment for an American setting,’ she points out.

This historic return marks Charles’s first US state visit as monarch, following 19 previous trips as the Prince of Wales.

In ditching the formal fascinators for a more accessible flair, the message is clear: this isn’t just a royal visit, it’s a homecoming. 

In a gesture of solidarity, community leaders in Bridgeview, Illinois, have introduced a new “Welcome to Little Palestine” sign, marking a significant moment for the southwest suburbs.

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Despite facing a wave of hateful messages during the initial unveiling, organizers are undeterred, bolstering security to transform this unveiling into a demonstration of resilience and pride.

The sign is a tribute to a vibrant corridor of over 200 Arab-owned businesses that span from Bridgeview to Worth.

The latest sign was revealed at Westfield Plaza on 87th Street, adding to the area’s cultural landmarks.

“This unveiling is more than just a sign; it is a proclamation of our identity,” stated Rush Darwish, president of the Arab American Business and Professional Association. “Our community chooses unity, pride, and progress in the face of hate. Little Palestine symbolizes resilience, culture, and economic strength, and we are committed to moving forward together.”

Earlier this month, the first sign was unveiled at 83rd Street and Harlem Avenue.

SEE ALSO | New ‘Little Palestine’ sign unveiled on Harlem Avenue in Bridgeview