Colorado head football coach and former Jackson State coach Deion Sanders announced on Monday that he was diagnosed with bladder cancer earlier this year.
In a news conference ahead of Colorado’s fall camp for the 2025 season, Sanders, joined by his medical team, revealed that a malignant tumor was discovered during routine health screenings, leading to the removal of his bladder. Dr. Janet Kukreja, his doctor at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, confirmed that the surgery was successful, and Sanders is now considered cured of the cancer.
Sanders described the process as a difficult journey, sharing that he lost nearly 25 pounds and faced significant changes to his daily life, including adjustments to his urinary function after the surgery. He stated, “I can’t pee like I used to pee. It’s totally different,” and joked about possibly having a portable toilet on the sidelines during games this fall.
Throughout his ordeal, Sanders kept his diagnosis private, initially telling his sons that his upcoming surgery was related to a previous foot issue—he did not want them to be distracted during the NFL draft process. Sanders emphasized a message to others going through similar challenges:
“Let’s stop being ashamed of it and let’s deal with it head on,” urging people to get checked and not ignore health issues.
Despite these major health setbacks—including 14 surgeries since 2021 and previous blood clot complications that led to two toe amputations—Sanders made it clear that stepping away from coaching was never an option. He has resumed his role with the Buffaloes, entering his third season, and is preparing to coach Colorado in the upcoming season opener on August 29.
Sanders also mentioned that making a will was part of his preparations after his diagnosis, highlighting the importance of having affairs in order in the face of serious health challenges. He credited his support network, including his medical team, for helping him through this intensely personal and public battle.
“It has been a tremendous journey… God is good… God is good… You have no idea,” said Sanders. “I never once in this journey said, ‘God, why me?’”
