Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders revealed on Monday that he has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of bladder cancer. However, following surgery, his oncologist, Dr. Janet Kukreja from the CU Cancer Center, has deemed him cured after the removal of his bladder as part of the treatment plan.
Speaking to the media on the eve of the football team's fall camp, Sanders, who will turn 58 next month, expressed his intent to continue coaching the Buffaloes in his third season. He returned to campus last week and shared an optimistic message on social media, stating, “Back and Feeling Great!” Sanders had missed some summer football camps due to his health issues.
A video posted by the production crew of “Well Off Media,” which follows Sanders and the Buffaloes, featured a moment from May 9 in which he reflected on the emotional challenges of his diagnosis, stating, “I don’t know if I’m ready mentally, emotionally. Last night was tough…because I had to make a will.”
In addition to his recent health challenges, Sanders has previously faced complications related to his left foot, which included the amputation of two toes in 2021 and surgeries to address blood clots.
Despite these health concerns, Sanders has secured a contract extension through the 2029 season. The Buffaloes are set to begin their season on August 29 against Georgia Tech at Folsom Field. Notably, this season marks a transition for Sanders, as he will not be coaching his sons, who have moved on to professional football. Last season, the Buffaloes achieved a 9-4 record and participated in the Alamo Bowl.