Deion Sanders Provides Update On Health Amidst Recovery From Bladder Cancer

BOULDER — In July, Colorado Buffaloes coach Deion Sanders announced he had defeated bladder cancer, a personal victory that came after weeks of uncertainty, invasive procedures, and weight loss.

With the college football season just three weeks away, "Coach Prime" continues to look and sound more like the man who has become the face of CU football.

Jul 9, 2025; Frisco, TX, USA; Colorado head coach Deion Sanders speaks with the media during 2025 Big 12 Football Media Days at The Star. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images | Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

On Friday, Sanders took the table podium at CU’s Fall Sports Media Day, smiling, cracking jokes, and moving with the same confidence that has defined his career.

“I’m good, I’m healthy. Vibrant. I’m my old self,” Sanders said during his press conference in Boulder. “I’m trying my best to live life to the fullest, considering what just transpired.”

Walking His Way Back

The 56-year-old coach, known for his relentless energy on and off the field, spoke candidly about his recovery.

Sanders said he now walks at least a mile each day around campus, a routine he’s embraced not only as part of his rehabilitation but also as a way to stay connected with his players and staff. Recent videos from Well Off Media have captured “Coach Prime” and his staff walking together, highlighting the close bond they continue to build.

In July, Sanders revealed that his fight with bladder cancer had taken a major physical toll on him, costing him up to 25 pounds. The decision to undergo treatment, he said, was not easy but ultimately necessary if he wanted to be present for his team this fall.

For anyone who hasn’t endured a major invasive surgery, recovery can be a slow, often grueling process. But Friday’s appearance was the clearest sign yet that “Coach Prime” is well on his way back to full strength.

A Moment Bigger Than Football

Before the formal press conference began, Sanders was joined by Parker Rose, a high school football player from Colorado who is battling leukemia.

In a touching scene, Rose signed his national letter of intent to join the Buffaloes — an honorary commitment orchestrated by "Coach Prime" and the CU program. Rose also joined the Buffs back in April during Colorado's NFL Pro Day.

A part of the herd. 💛🖤

We were honored to have our Team IMPACT teammate, Parker Rose, at the We Ain’t Hard 2 Find Showcase.

Hope you enjoyed the VIP experience — your presence continues to inspire us all! 🫶#GoBuffs pic.twitter.com/DF4sFe0e6v
— Colorado Buffaloes Football (@CUBuffsFootball) April 15, 2025

Sanders sat next to Rose as he made the ceremonial signing, placing a hand on his shoulder and offering words of encouragement.

"C'mon, let's sign it, let's go. C'mon, you with me, man."

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Eyes on the Season

Nov 23, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Colorado head coach Deion Sanders watches his players warmup prior to the game between the Kansas Jayhawks and the Colorado Buffaloes at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nick Tre. Smith-Imagn Images | Nick Tre. Smith-Imagn Images

After a 9-4 campaign in 2024, the Buffaloes are retooled and ready for a new era of Colorado football under "Coach Prime."

Colorado opens the season Aug. 29 at home against Georgia Tech, offering the first look at a revamped Buffaloes roster.

Gone are some of the program’s biggest names from the past two years, including Jacksonville Jaguars rookie two-way standout Travis Hunter and Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders, leaving fans eager to see who will step into the spotlight.

Tickets for the season opener sold out weeks ago, extending the streak of sellouts since Sanders’ arrival in 2023.

As "Coach Prime" leads his refreshed Buffaloes into the spotlight, all eyes will be on Boulder to see how this new chapter unfolds.