Ben Coates

Ben Terrence Coates Jr. (born August 16, 1969) is an American former professional football tight end who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 10 seasons, primarily with the New England Patriots. He played college football for the Livingstone Blue Bears and was selected by the Patriots in the fifth round of the 1991 NFL draft, where he spent all but one season of his NFL career. In his final season, he was a member of the Baltimore Ravens. During his nine seasons with the Patriots, Coates received five Pro Bowl and two first-team All-Pro selections. He also made an appearance in Super Bowl XXXI. After being released by the Patriots, Coates signed with the Ravens and was part of the team that won Super Bowl XXXV. Coates pursued a coaching career following his retirement, serving as the head coach at his alma mater Livingstone and the tight ends coach for the Cleveland Browns. He was named to the second NFL 1990s All-Decade Team in 2000 and inducted to the New England Patriots Hall of Fame in 2008.