Deion Sanders has 'swagger back,' but it's not enough to help Colorado bounce back

We doubt he lost much of it. Even when he's sick, few have more flair than "Coach Prime." But is it enough to save his program from cratering again in 2026? 

After a 9-4 2024 season, the Buffaloes backslid in 2025. Colorado went 3-9 (1-8 in the Big 12), finishing second to last in the conference, ahead of the Oklahoma State Cowboys (1-11, 0-9 in Big 12). Sanders' son, Deion Jr., fears he may need to update his LinkedIn if the Buffs endure another losing season. 

"I appreciate you, man, because we gotta win," Deion Sanders Jr., a content creator, told Colorado director of player personnel Darrius Darden-Box during a recent vlog. "Or I'm going to be out of a job." 

Deion Sanders is confident the team will do more "winning" now that he's no longer battling multiple health issues. 

"I'm good. Great doctors in Colorado have brought me through. God has brought me through. I'm thankful. I'm healthy. I got my swagger back," he said. "Like, I'm ready to go, ready to go coach my butt off this season."

The experts aren't convinced a rejuvenated Deion Sanders will be enough to spark a turnaround for the Buffaloes. CBS Sports' Shehan Jeyarajah predicted Colorado would finish second to last in the conference again in his post-spring power rankings.

It's good for Deion Sanders that he's healthy and remains bold. That said, his presence isn't enough to build a national title contender. It takes talent and resources; Colorado clearly lacks those.