Deion Sanders reveals bladder cancer battle… here’s what you should know
Deion Sanders opens up on cancer battle, comeback to coaching.
University of Colorado head coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders has revealed that he was recently diagnosed with an aggressive form of bladder cancer, underwent successful surgery, and has now been officially declared cancer-free. During a press conference held with his medical team, Dr. Janet Kukreja, director of urologic oncology, confirmed that Sanders had his bladder removed and reconstructed using a portion of his intestine—without the need for chemotherapy or radiation. The surgery was performed in the offseason and deemed successful, with no signs of cancer recurrence at this time.
Sanders was visibly emotional as he shared that he had even drafted a will in May when his diagnosis first emerged. He described the period as mentally and emotionally grueling but expressed gratitude and optimism. He noted a 25-pound weight loss during treatment and joked about lifestyle adjustments, even mentioning that he now relies on Depends and suggested a portable toilet might be needed on the sidelines when games resume.
Throughout his recovery, Sanders received exceptional support from family, friends, and colleagues—including former NFL star and close friend Randy Moss, who called him regularly to offer encouragement. Sanders kept the cancer diagnosis private from his sons during their draft preparations, choosing instead to share it only with his eldest son and daughters, in order to avoid distraction from their NFL pursuits.
Despite the serious health scare, Sanders remained resolute in his commitment to coaching. He affirmed that coaching the Colorado Buffaloes this season was never in question and emphasized his readiness to return once cleared by medical professionals. He dismissed speculation about stepping away, stating he always believed he would lead the team again—and expressed confidence with the support mechanisms in place.
Sanders missed several summer events, including youth camps and media day appearances, due to his quiet recovery. Although he remained silent on the specifics initially, he later admitted in a candid video posted by his son that he was “still going through something” and not fully recovered at the time, while sharing footage of daily workouts and cold baths with his daughter to show progress.
He finally returned to Boulder, Colorado, ahead of the 2025 training camp, sending a hopeful four-word message via X: “Back and Feeling Great!” This announcement came just days before the cruise into preseason, signaling clear intent to lead the team into the upcoming Big 12 season opener on August 29 against Georgia Tech.
Sanders’s coaching future was further secured when he signed a five-year, $54 million contract extension in March 2025, placing him among the top-paid college football coaches. The extension reflects Colorado’s confidence in his leadership, even amid health uncertainties, as he enters his third season as head coach after driving a notable resurgence in the Buffaloes program.
The coach’s journey through treatment and recovery has elevated conversations around early cancer detection, particularly for individuals with recurring blood clot history. He emphasized the importance of regular health screenings and called others to action based on his experience. With his health restored and spirits high, Sanders is now focused on guiding the Buffaloes through a critical season of rebuilding and new beginnings without star players like his sons Shedeur and Shilo and Heisman winner Travis Hunter—all now in the NFL.