Deion Sanders Sends Clear Message on Player Expectations in New Era

Deion Sanders set the stage at the Big 12 Media Days this week. After making his first public appearance in months, the Colorado Buffaloes football coach is excited about the team going into a new era for him. They’re ready to compete this season and he will be coaching a team that doesn’t have either of his sons on the roster.

Sanders talked about how excited he was to have fellow Big 12 coaches checking in with him while he was away from the programs. Coach Prime has been battling health issues since his time at Jackson State. Through his faith and belief, he’s been able to overcome and conquer what has ailed him. Keeping the main thing the main thing, he didn’t answer any questions pertaining to his health and even shot down a reporter from The Athletic in the process.

Sanders is a private person who allows the world to know what’s going on with his health when he feels it is the right time to discuss. Taking a stance on keeping some things private has analysts, sports pundits, fans, players, and coaches wanting to know: Will he be on the sidelines this upcoming season? One thing everyone found out was Sanders’ good friend and Dallas Cowboys teammate, Michael Irving, was by his side during the Big 12 Media Days appearance.

Sanders talked about the number of games they will have broadcast on network TV channels and where they will be playing this year, giving them opportunity to recruit in those areas, with an emphasis on Texas.

One thing that Buffs fans were able to take away from the event was things Coach Prime would like to see changed concerning players uniform pants being above their knees looking like shorts. Now that players are being compensated via Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) directly by their respective universities since the House vs NCAA settlement was finalized, they should be held accountable like professional players when it comes to the uniform they wear on the field. Regardless of whether it is practice or a game, players should be held to a higher standard because they are representing the school.

Sanders has never minced words when talking about athletes being paid like professionals. So being held accountable in the manner professional players are when it comes to their actions on and off the field should be the standard. Sanders’ old school coaching benefits the athletes by preparing them for what will be required in life.

Despite being away, Coach Prime continues to keep eyes wide open and ears listening to what can be expected from the Buffs football team this season. Colorado opens the 2025 season under the Friday Night Lights on August 29th against Georgia Tech at Folsom Field.

Sanders and his coaching staff will have the team ready to compete and make a positive step in the P.S. era (Post-Shedeur) in Boulder.