BOULDER, Colo. (Diya TV) — Deion Sanders, head football coach at the University of Colorado, announced Monday that he has beaten cancer after undergoing bladder removal surgery. The Hall of Famer revealed the health scare during a news conference, where he credited early detection and his medical team for saving his life.
Sanders, 57, said doctors discovered a malignant tumor on his bladder. The cancer diagnosis led to surgery, marking his 14th operation in recent years. Despite the challenges, he remains upbeat and determined to return stronger for the Buffaloes’ 2025 season.
Sanders said he spoke with his players on Sunday about his recent health ordeal. His message was clear: staying on top of your health can make all the difference.
“Get checked out,” Sanders urged during the press conference. “Because it could have been a whole other gathering if I hadn’t.”
Sanders said the cancer diagnosis came earlier this year, forcing him to miss the Buffaloes’ on-campus football camps. At the time, the nature of his illness was not publicly disclosed. Now, he wants to use his experience to help others take preventive action.
“There are some folks right now calling the doctors, scheduling checkups,” he said. “There are some wives out there saying, ‘Baby, I told you… Because if it could happen to Prime, baby, it could happen to you.”
This is not Sanders’ first major health scare. In 2023, he underwent surgery for blood clots in both legs. Doctors feared he might lose his foot, but the former NFL and MLB star avoided amputation. Two years before that, while coaching at Jackson State University, Sanders had two toes amputated due to blood clots.
Despite the setbacks, Sanders has remained committed to his role as head coach. He’s entering his third season with the Colorado Buffaloes and is preparing for their season opener against Georgia Tech on August 29.
“I always knew I was going to coach again,” Sanders said. “It was never in my spirit, in my heart, that God wouldn’t allow me to coach again.”
Following the removal of his bladder, Sanders has had to adjust to new realities. He said he currently uses adult diapers but is keeping a positive attitude.
“I depend on Depends,” he said with a laugh. “But slowly but surely, I built myself back up to where I’m able, I’m strong, I’m ready.”
Sanders said he has lost about 25 pounds during his recovery and still needs to gain back about 12 pounds to return to full strength. He remains thankful and optimistic as he continues healing.
“It has been a tremendous journey, and I’m truly thankful that God – God is so good,” Sanders said.
Sanders is now turning his attention back to football. He emphasized his love for the game and his commitment to leading the Colorado Buffaloes this fall. The team kicks off its season at home against Georgia Tech on August 29. Sanders said he’s focused, energized, and grateful for another chance to do what he loves.
“I’m here. I’m back. And I’m ready,” he said.
As Sanders reflected on his journey, he used the moment to encourage fans, players, and the public to take their health seriously. He stressed the importance of routine checkups and early detection.
“If it could happen to Prime, it could happen to anybody,” Sanders said.
The coach’s message was clear: cancer can happen to anyone, but early diagnosis and proper care can make all the difference.
With his health improving and the season ahead, Sanders remains a powerful example of strength, faith, and resilience. And for fans of college football, “Coach Prime” is ready to lead again—this time with even more purpose.
