Tribe football's Coleman signs with NFL Texans
Former William & Mary star defensive tackle Jasper Coleman has signed a free agent contract with the Houston Texans.
Coleman is one of three former Tribe players to sign with a NFL team this spring, as standout wide receiver Tre McBride was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the seventh round of the NFL draft while All-American defensive end Mike Reilly recently signed a free agent contract with the Cleveland Browns.
Coleman is one of nine former Tribe standouts currently on NFL rosters – R.J. Archer (Seattle Seahawks), Jerome Couplin III (Philadelphia Eagles), Jonathan Grimes (Houston Texans), Mike Leach (Arizona Cardinals), Sean Lissemore (San Diego Chargers), McBride (Tennessee Titans), Reilly (Cleveland Browns) and B.W. Webb (Pittsburgh Steelers).
A tremendous force on W&M’s defensive line the past few seasons, Coleman finished his career with 29 starts and totaled 100 tackles, 12 tackles for loss (TFL), five sacks, three fumble recoveries, one blocked kick and two passes broken up.
Following an outstanding senior season in which he totaled 33 tackles, 5.5 TFL, two sacks and a blocked kick, the Richmond, Va., native was invited to play in the Medal of Honor Bowl.
In addition to excelling on the field, Coleman distinguished himself in the classroom and was chosen to the Colonial Athletic Associati0on Academic All-Conference team during each of the last three seasons. Additionally, he was honored as W&M’s Chuck Boone Leadership Award nominee.
