On July 28, 2025, University of Colorado head football coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders held a deeply emotional news conference alongside Dr. Janet Kukreja, revealing he was diagnosed with aggressive bladder cancer in spring and underwent surgery to have his bladder removed. Doctors confirmed he is now cured and medically cleared to return to coaching
Sanders shared the emotional toll—losing ~25 lbs, drafting a will, and adapting to life without a bladder—but emphasized his unwavering faith, resilience, and readiness to lead the Buffaloes into the 2025 season
. Known for his signature optimism, he declared, “I stared life in my face,” not death
🏈 What This Means for the Colorado Buffaloes
Coach Prime is returning to lead: Despite significant health challenges—including past surgeries and toe amputations—Sanders affirmed multiple times that he’s coming back to coach this fall and continues under a multi‑year contract.
Continuity at the helm: Sanders’ leadership has revitalized the Buffaloes, backing a significant 9‑4 season in 2024 following Heisman-winning performances by Travis Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders. He now prepares to guide a roster undergoing substantial turnover, including a QB battle between Kaidon Salter and freshman Julian Lewis.
Emphasis on awareness and health messaging: By publicly sharing his cancer journey, Sanders used his platform to encourage early cancer screenings—particularly targeting communities of color—and to break stigma around bladder cancer and post-surgical discussions.
Program morale and identity: Sanders’ resilience reinforces the program culture: faith, toughness, and high aspirations remain central. He lit up the conference with humor—joking about wearing Depends and needing a porta‑potty on the sideline—but also delivered his iconic line: “we gotta win a darn championship”
✅ Bottom Line
Sanders’ triumphant health update offers stability and momentum for Colorado ahead of a pivotal 2025 season. With “Coach Prime” fully committed, the Buffaloes retain a strong, recognizable leader during a major roster transformation. His journey may also inspire stronger program unity, enhanced health awareness, and a renewed focus on competing at the highest level.