Deion Sanders sets code of conduct before season opener

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jeff Hauser | Last updated Aug 23, 2025 7:27 AM ET

Deion Sanders has never shied away from setting a tone, and on the eve of a new academic year in Boulder, the Colorado head coach once again made his expectations clear.

While addressing his players on Wednesday, the 58-year-old unveiled a strict dress and conduct policy designed to sharpen discipline well beyond the football field.

“No slides,” Sanders said in a video posted by Well Off Media, before adding that hoodies, headphones, or sitting in the back of class would not be tolerated. He stressed that his staff will be watching closely, ensuring players present themselves with focus and respect in academic settings. Even in online classes, Sanders warned against casual dress or distracting behavior on camera.

Deion sets dress code policy for his players attending class

"No slides. ... If I see you with a hoodie or headphones on in class, there's gonna be a problem."

(via @DeionSanders, @DeionSandersJr) pic.twitter.com/vQlZHoMXCs
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) August 21, 2025

The move comes as Sanders enters his first campaign without quarterback Shedeur Sanders under center. Colorado is fresh off a 9–4 season and an Alamo Bowl appearance, a sharp turnaround from the 4–8 mark in his inaugural year. That rise coincided with individual milestones—Travis Hunter winning the Heisman Trophy and becoming the No. 2 pick in the NFL Draft, while Shedeur himself was selected by the Cleveland Browns.

For Sanders, success is tied directly to accountability. “It’s gonna be a problem,” he repeated, each time reinforcing that discipline in the classroom mirrors the discipline needed on Saturdays. His insistence on professional presentation suggests he sees cultural standards as a foundation for program stability, especially as the Buffaloes aim to sustain momentum without their star quarterback.

Colorado opens the 2025 season August 29 against Georgia Tech next Friday (8 p.m. ET on ESPN).

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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