The NFL community came together in a touching display of unity during the 2025 NFL Draft to honor the late Coral Terpening. As the wife of Matt Terpening, the Indianapolis Colts' director of college scouting, Coral's passing deeply affected not only her family but also the broader football world. Her story inspired a powerful moment of solidarity across the league.

NFL Draft Pays Tribute to Coral Terpening

On April 26, at the start of the fifth round, NFL teams, including the Indianapolis Colts, donned coral-colored shirts bearing the phrase, "Your light lives on in all of us". The gesture was a heartfelt tribute to coral terpening. The Colts' draft room included Matt Terpening and his daughters, Stella and Gwyneth, as they remembered Coral together. Colts general manager Chris Ballard expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, remarking, "It was a hard week for all of us. The light was watching a community of Westfield come out to support this family." You can read more about the ceremony and Chris Ballard's remarks in the Indianapolis Star coverage.

League-Wide Support for the Terpening Family

Teams from across the NFL joined the Colts in honoring Coral. The Atlanta Falcons, Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans, and many others wore the same coral shirts in their draft rooms. Some teams shared heartfelt messages on social media, reaching fans and communities nationwide. The Houston Texans, for example, issued a sincere statement, "Our draft room is donning coral in memory of Coral Cressman Terpening." For a detailed account of how various teams participated, visit Colts.com’s tribute article.

The Houston Texans’ official website also shared images and words of condolence, further highlighting how teams joined together in support. These acts conveyed that Coral’s legacy continues to shine through the kindness and strength of the football community.

Remembering Coral Terpening’s Legacy

Coral Terpening passed away on April 12 in Louisville, while supporting her daughters at a volleyball tournament. She leaves behind a legacy of love and positivity. The phrase "Your light lives on in all of us" sums up the sentiment felt in every NFL draft room that day. Organizations invited those seeking to honor her memory to consider donating to charity in her name.

A Unifying Moment in Sports

The NFL’s tribute to Coral Terpening reflected the deep bonds formed within the league and its communities. Through shared gestures of support, her family and friends felt the embrace of an entire sport.

For those wishing to learn more or pay their respects, these stories serve as a reminder of the power of unity and compassion.

Coral Terpening's memory continues to inspire kindness and togetherness throughout the world of sports.