Don Coleman Michigan State Football...

Don Edwin Coleman was born in Ponca City, Oklahoma on May 4, 1928. He became a celebrated figure in college football as a standout tackle for Michigan State University from 1949 to 1951.

✦ College Career

Don Coleman's journey to Michigan State was unique. His family moved to Flint, Michigan, where he attended Flint Central High School. Initially, he was a talented swimmer and trumpet player. He didn't play football until his senior year when his mother finally allowed him to participate. In that single year, he led Flint Central to a state championship and earned All-Michigan honors.

Coleman's exceptional performance caught the attention of Duffy Daugherty, then an assistant coach at Michigan State, who recruited him. At Michigan State, under the guidance of Hall of Fame coach Clarence "Biggie" Munn, Coleman became a key player for the Spartans. Despite being one of the lighter players on the team, Coleman's quickness and intensity made him a formidable force.

He was known for his versatility and played a significant role in Michigan State's success. In 1951, his senior year, he was a unanimous All-American and helped the Spartans achieve a 9-0 record, contributing to their first national championship. Coleman's achievements at Michigan State, including being the first African-American All-American in the school's history, are still highly regarded. He was the first player ever to have his jersey retired by Michigan State.

✦ Road to the Pro Game

The Chicago Cardinals drafted Don Coleman in the eighth round of the 1952 NFL Draft. However, his professional football career was interrupted by his service in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After his discharge, he was traded to the Green Bay Packers but chose to pursue a career in education rather than continue playing professional football.

✦ Football Legacy

Don Coleman's football legacy is primarily rooted in his remarkable college career. His achievements at Michigan State, where he was a unanimous All-American, helped pave the way for future African-American athletes at the university. He is remembered as one of the greatest players in Michigan State's history.

Coleman's impact extended beyond the football field. He earned three academic degrees and had a distinguished career in education, serving in various roles at the Flint school system and Michigan State University. He also contributed to community initiatives.

His contributions to college football were recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1975.

✦ Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

✦ Unanimous All-American (1951)

✦ College Football Hall of Fame (1975)

✦ First African-American All-American at Michigan State

✦ First Michigan State player to have his jersey retired (No. 78)

Info courtesy of Newspapers.com, Wikipedia, and Pro-Football-Reference.com