Derrick Coleman is an inspiring figure in NFL history, known not only for his skills on the field but also for being a trailblazer as one of the first Deaf offensive players in the league’s history and the first Deaf football player to win a Super Bowl.
Early Life and Education:
- Birth Date: October 18, 1990
- Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Derrick Coleman was diagnosed with bilateral hearing loss at age 3. Even as a child, he faced bullying and exclusion but learned to overcome these challenges with the help of his parents, who encouraged him to never let his hearing loss define him.
Coleman attended Fullerton Union High School in Fullerton, California, where he excelled in football and track. He quickly gained attention for his athleticism, perseverance, and leadership on the football field.
Coleman went on to play college football at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). At UCLA, he majored in Political Science while playing as a running back for the Bruins. On the field, Coleman made a significant impact, rushing for 765 yards and scoring 11 touchdowns during his senior year in 2011.
Deafness and Communication
Coleman relies on hearing aids and learned how to read lips from a young age—a skill he developed to communicate effectively, particularly in noisy environments like football games.
Although Coleman has never relied heavily on American Sign Language (ASL), he has some familiarity with it. He uses a mix of lip-reading, communication tools like visual signals, and hearing aids both on and off the field to interact with teammates and coaches.
NFL Career
Despite his college success, Coleman was not selected in the 2012 NFL Draft. However, his perseverance paid off when he was signed by the Minnesota Vikings, though he was later released.
Coleman’s breakthrough came in 2013 when he joined the Seattle Seahawks. He became their fullback and contributed on special teams. Coleman was a member of the Seahawks’ Super Bowl XLVIII team that defeated the Denver Broncos in 2014, making him the first deaf player to win a Super Bowl.
After his time with the Seahawks, Coleman also played for the Atlanta Falcons (2017) and the Arizona Cardinals (2018) before retiring from professional football. In 2023, he worked for the Green Bay Packers as the Assistant to Player Engagement.
Advocacy and Inspirational Work
Derrick gained widespread recognition for his story and received national attention from a Duracell battery commercial in 2014, which showcased his challenges and triumphs as a deaf athlete. The ad resonated with millions, especially within the deaf community, and presented him as a role model for overcoming adversity.
Coleman has become a motivational speaker, sharing his story with schools, hearing-impaired communities, and athletic organizations. His slogan, “No Excuses,” serves as both his personal mantra and an encouragement to others not to let obstacles stand in their way.
What Is He Doing Now Since Retiring?
Since retiring from the NFL, Coleman has focused on various pursuits.
He actively participates in events and programs centered on disability awareness and overcoming adversity. Coleman aims to inspire others, particularly those in the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.
Derrick co-founded the Derrick L. Coleman Jr. Foundation, which supports the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. The foundation works with children and young adults to instill confidence, provide resources, and promote inclusivity.
In 2023, he worked for the Green Bay Packers as the Assistant to Player Engagement.
Legacy
Derrick Coleman’s journey from an undrafted free agent to a Super Bowl champion remains an incredible testament to his work ethic and determination. Not only did he succeed in a profession that relies heavily on verbal communication, but he also shattered stereotypes about what deaf athletes can achieve. Today, his life continues to serve as proof that there truly are no excuses for pursuing your dreams, regardless of the challenges you face.
Until next time, ta ta! 😄🤟🏻
