Colorado coach Deion Sanders was hurting after the Week 6 loss to TCU. The Buffaloes fell 35-21, dropping to 2-4 on the season and 0-3 in the Big 12. But Sanders wasn’t just hurting from the defeat — he was physically unwell.
Sanders was seen with his left shoe off as he walked the sideline and even sat down at points during the game. Afterward, he acknowledged that the pain may have been related to recurring blood clot issues in his leg.
“I’m hurting like crazy. … I’m not getting blood to my leg; that’s why my leg is throbbing,” Sanders said.
On October 7, Sanders revealed he would undergo surgery to address the issue, according to Buff Zone.
“I’m having a procedure today,” Sanders said. “Prayerfully I’ll be right back tomorrow. It is what it is, and we found what we found and we knew what it was. I have a wonderful team of doctors.”
Sanders said he will not miss any time, and the matter is considered non-threatening. Still, the 58-year-old Colorado coach has endured a grueling stretch with his health this year.
Deion Sanders Had Bout With Bladder Cancer This Year
Sanders missed significant time with the Buffaloes leading up to the season. On July 28, he revealed he had been diagnosed with bladder cancer in April and had it surgically removed, leaving him cancer free.
That procedure changed Sanders’ daily life, including his time on the sideline. Back in July, he explained that he would need to use the restroom frequently, leading to the installation of a portable bathroom on the sideline.
Sanders also admitted he relies on adult undergarments following his surgery.
“I wasn’t joking! I truly DEPEND on Depend,” Sanders said. “Ain’t NO SHAME in taking care of yourself. NO SHAME in getting health screenings. And there certainly ain’t NO SHAME in needing added protection or using Depend to stay in the game. That’s not weakness — that’s WINNING.”
Deion Sanders May Have to Walk Away From Colorado Eventually
Since 2021, Sanders has undergone 14 surgeries, beginning during his time at Jackson State. That fall, he had two toes amputated on his left foot. Later procedures also involved blood clot issues similar to what he is currently battling.
It’s a lot for anyone to endure, especially while leading a major college football program like the Buffaloes.
“He didn’t use his health situation as an excuse Saturday, but it raises questions about his status after a 2-4 start for his team in his third season as head coach. He previously said other members of his family have struggled with blood clots, too,” USA Today’s Brent Schrotenboer wrote.
Sanders has brought a spotlight to Colorado rarely seen before in Boulder. While a slow start in his third year isn’t what anyone envisioned, questions linger about whether the struggles are tied not only to the loss of stars Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter but also to Sanders’ own health.
No one would fault him if he had to walk away. And Colorado and its fans would remain forever grateful for the impact he has made. But the Buffaloes may eventually have to start thinking of life without Sanders on the sideline.
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