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Deion Sanders Discusses NFL Coaching Prospects and College Success
Deion Sanders, a former NFL star with a remarkable career that included two Super Bowl victories and a Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2011, is now making waves in the collegiate coaching scene. After a successful tenure at Jackson State, where he led the team for three seasons, Sanders has taken the helm at the University of Colorado. His impact has quickly been felt, as the Buffaloes show significant improvement under his leadership.
Recently, Sanders had a candid conversation with fellow former Dallas Cowboys player and current NFL analyst Troy Aikman on his streaming show “We Got Time Today,” available on Tubi. During their discussion, the possibility of Sanders returning to the NFL was explored. Although he is no stranger to professional football, Sanders expressed hesitations about coaching at that level, particularly regarding the modern practices of NFL teams.
“That’s the way we practiced,” Sanders stated, referring to the differences in training and preparation in today’s NFL. He noted, “I know it’s cute, but I couldn’t coach pro ball. The way they practice, the way they go about it, I couldn’t take it — as a man and as a football enthusiast. I care about the game… There’s no way I could allow that to happen on my watch. That would be tough.”
Collegiate Focus
While Sanders has transitioned to media and coaching after his playing career, he has emphasized the importance of love for the game over fame or financial incentives. His recent success at Colorado has sparked conversations about a potential move back to the NFL, but he remains steadfast in his reasoning for staying in college football. In earlier statements, including a notable interview with “60 Minutes” in 2022, Sanders expressed that he “couldn’t coach” in the NFL due to current practices, emphasizing a philosophy centered around love for the sport.
During a recent interview on “Good Morning America,” Sanders further clarified his stance. “The only way I would consider is to coach my sons,” he mentioned, highlighting his desire to mentor his sons in the sport. This personal touch appears to be his main motivation when thinking about a return to the professional arena.
The Cowboys’ Coaching Search
The Dallas Cowboys recently parted ways with head coach Mike McCarthy, leading to speculations about potential replacements, including Sanders. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones noted he had discussions with Sanders during the coaching search, although the team ultimately hired Brian Schottenheimer. Aikman remarked that Sanders would be a strong candidate for the role, stating, “There are a small handful of people that I know that I just simply would not bet against. And Deion is one of those handful of people. He’s proven it at every stop. He’d be successful in the NFL.”
Aikman acknowledged Sanders’ ability to influence young men at the collegiate level, stressing the difference in impact compared to coaching at the professional level, where he believes Sanders could excel without a doubt. He noted Sanders’ commanding presence and strong personality, stating that he would instill confidence and authority as a head coach.
Future Prospects
As Sanders continues to coach his sons—Shedeur and Shilo Sanders, along with Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter—at Colorado, both Shedeur and Hunter are projected to be high picks in the upcoming NFL Draft. With his focus on developing talent and the overall positive trajectory of his team, Sanders remains a prominent figure in discussions about the future of college football coaching and potential transitions to the NFL.
As his journey unfolds, it’s clear that Deion Sanders remains deeply passionate about the sport, whether at the collegiate ranks or in professional football discussions.
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