Tevin Coleman

Born on April 16, 1993, Tevin Ford Coleman is a former American professional football player renowned for his athleticism and prowess on the football field. Best recognized as a running back in the National Football League (NFL), Tevin Coleman’s career speaks volumes about his commitment to the game and the legacy he has left behind. True to his Indiana roots, Coleman played college football for the Indiana Hoosiers. A standout career ensued, highlighted by the illustrious honor of being a unanimous All-American in 2014.

Growing up in Oak Forest, Illinois, Coleman attended Oak Forest High School. It was here where he developed a strong foundation in American football, playing as a running back, wide receiver, and cornerback. He also returned kicks and punts, establishing a versatile foundation that would serve him well in his football career. His illustrious high school career culminated in being named the 2011 Southtown Star Player of the Year. In his senior year, Coleman had an exceptional record, rushing for 949 yards from 83 carries with 13 touchdowns. His skills as a receiver were equally impressive, with 16 receptions totaling 345 yards and five touchdowns.

Branching out from football, Coleman was also an accomplished athlete on the school’s track and field team, participating as a sprinter and jumper. His prowess in the 100-meter sprint and long-jump competitions was highly recognized in the state of Illinois. This included a fourth placing in the 100m sprint and a striking second place in the long jump at the 2011 IHSA State Championships.

Upon graduation, Coleman’s skills on the football field did not go unnoticed. Ranked as the No. 37 running back nationally in 2012, several universities sought after his talent. Ultimately, he chose Indiana over scholarship offers from Georgia Tech, Minnesota, and Michigan State.

This was the start of his journey with Indiana University. Playing under head coach Kevin Wilson, Coleman took to the field as a true freshman in 2012. He made remarkable progress over his career at Indiana, breaking records and leading the Hoosiers.

By the end of his junior season in 2014, Coleman had made a significant impact on the football field. A defining moment of his junior season came when he became the 18th player in NCAA Division I FBS history to reach the 2,000-yard rushing mark in a season. It was this milestone that led to his decision to skip his senior season and draft for the 2015 NFL.

In the 2015 NFL Draft, Coleman was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round with the 73rd overall pick. Over the seasons with the Falcons, Coleman proved his worth with critical performances that showed steady growth and determined gameplay. Impressive moments followed with his first career game with 100+ rushing yards in his rookie season and continued in subsequent seasons with career-high records.

Remaining resilient in the face of adversity, Coleman’s career jumped to the next level when he signed a two-year, $10 million contract with the San Francisco 49ers in 2019. Despite injury challenges, Coleman continued to demonstrate his skill and strategy on the field, hitting numerous personal records. His tenure with the 49ers led him to Super Bowl LIV, in which they were defeated by the Kansas City Chiefs.

Later moving to the New York Jets in 2021 under a one-year deal, Coleman continued to show his value on the team, finishing second with 356 rushing yards. The following year, in 2022, he briefly returned to the 49ers, playing pivotal roles in their games. However, he was released later that year.

Tevin Ford Coleman’s football career has truly been a testament to perseverance, determination, and the undeniable drive of an athlete committed to his craft. From the high school fields of Illinois, through the college fields of Indiana, and onto the NFL’s grand stages, Coleman etched his mark as one of the NFL’s reputable Running Backs. His career exemplifies the heart and spirit of American football, leaving behind a legacy that future generations of athletes can aspire to.