Deion Sanders Beats Bladder Cancer, Declares: “That Was a Fight, But We Made It”
Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders delivered emotional news Monday, revealing he recently battled and beat an aggressive form of bladder cancer—a fight he kept private until now.
Speaking at a press conference in Boulder, Sanders, dressed in overalls, a cowboy hat, and his trademark sunglasses, got visibly emotional as he shared that his oncologist now considers him cancer-free following bladder removal surgery.
“It was dynamic. It was tough. It wasn’t a cakewalk. It wasn’t easy,” Sanders said, pausing to remove his sunglasses and compose himself. “That was a fight, but we made it.”
Dr. Janet Kukreja, Director of Urologic Oncology at the CU Cancer Center/UCHealth, confirmed that Sanders underwent a successful cystectomy—a major procedure that ultimately cleared him of the disease.
“Coach Prime” Stays in the Game
Despite undergoing 14 surgeries since 2021, including the amputation of two toes and ongoing complications from blood clots, the 57-year-old icon says he has no intention of stepping away from the sidelines. He plans to coach the Buffaloes this season, fully focused on continuing the turnaround he began when he arrived in Boulder.
Sanders previously faced media scrutiny for his visible health struggles, but the extent of his battle with cancer remained under wraps—until now.
A Legacy Bigger Than Football
More than a football coach, Deion Sanders continues to serve as a symbol of resilience, faith, and leadership. From transforming Jackson State to taking on a massive rebuild at Colorado, he’s never backed down from a challenge—and this was no different.
His story isn’t just about wins and losses. It’s about showing up, leading, and inspiring others—even when life delivers its hardest hits.
As the college football world rallies behind him, one thing is clear: Coach Prime is still in the game—and more determined than ever.