In a heartfelt and poignant announcement, Colorado head football coach Deion Sanders revealed that he has been diagnosed with bladder cancer. During a news conference held as the Buffaloes gear up for fall camp ahead of the 2025 season, Sanders shared the news alongside Dr. Janet Kukreja from the University of Colorado Cancer Center, who confirmed that he underwent surgery to remove his bladder after a malignant tumor was discovered. The encouraging news is that he has been deemed “cured” following this procedure.
“The process wasn’t easy,” Sanders candidly stated, reflecting on the difficult choices he faced regarding his health. Dr. Kukreja highlighted that the cancer had a high recurrence rate, which led Sanders to choose the surgical route as a definitive solution.
At 57 years old, Sanders was aware of the upcoming surgery during a challenging time for his son, Shedeur Sanders, whose NFL Draft prospects had shifted significantly. In an effort to shield his sons from additional stress, he downplayed his medical situation, jokingly suggesting to them that he was dealing with a foot issue while they focused on their own careers.
Since the diagnosis, Sanders has been navigating health obstacles, including being away from the team to recuperate after spring practice. Although he made an appearance at Big 12 media days in July, he refrained from discussing his health at that time, a testament to his focus on coaching.
Despite the challenges, Sanders never once considered stepping back from his coaching responsibilities. He credited chats with NFL legend Randy Moss, who faced his own battle with bile duct cancer in 2024, as a source of inspiration. Moss is preparing for a comeback to his role at ESPN this fall, a promising sign of resilience.
The diagnosis came after routine vascular tests — a follow-up related to previous surgeries for toe amputations due to blood clot complications. The training staff promptly acted after receiving critical communication from his primary care doctor, leading to the diagnosis before the cancer could advance further.
“I didn’t have any signs,” Sanders shared, emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups. Since the surgery, he’s experienced significant changes in his physical condition, reporting a loss of 25 pounds and adjusting to new urinary challenges. Utilizing humor to cope with the situation, he relayed, “I depend on Depend if you know what I mean,” while describing the nightly routine of multiple trips to the bathroom.
In a display of transparency and vulnerability, Sanders plans to address his condition openly, even suggesting that fans might notice a portable toilet on the sidelines during games. His goal? To serve as a beacon of hope and support for others facing similar diagnoses, stressing the importance of confronting such health issues without shame.
At the end of his announcement, Sanders addressed concerns about his legacy, noting that he recently finalized his will. “You don’t want to be a fool and leave and not have your business affairs in order,” he wisely remarked.
As he prepares for his third season at the helm of the Buffaloes, Sanders has led the team to a commendable 9-4 record last year, a significant improvement from his initial 4-8 campaign. His journey, both on the field and off, continues to inspire many as he navigates this new chapter in his life.
