In an emotional press conference at the University of Colorado’s Dal Ward Athletic Center, legendary coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders shared that he secretly battled and defeated bladder cancer. Sanders, celebrated for his charisma and resilience, underwent surgery to remove his bladder after doctors discovered a high-grade tumor. Today, he proudly declared himself cancer-free and ready to coach again.
A Hidden Battle and Complex Surgery
Sanders’ diagnosis came during a routine vascular exam, part of his ongoing checkups for blood clots. Doctors found a high-risk, non-muscle invasive bladder tumor, leading to a major surgery where part of his small intestine was used to create a new bladder.
At the press conference, Dr. Janet Kukreja from the University of Colorado Cancer Center explained:
“We removed the tumor, it hadn’t spread, and now he’s cancer-free.”
Sanders humorously acknowledged the lifestyle changes after surgery:
“I can’t pee like I used to… I depend on Depends. If you see a port-a-potty on the sideline, it’s real.”
Faith, Family, and Privacy
Remarkably, Sanders kept his diagnosis private, not even telling his sons Shedeur and Shilo or Travis Hunter, as they prepared for the NFL draft. He shared that he wanted them to stay focused on football rather than worrying about him.
During the conference, Sanders, holding back tears, reflected on his faith:
“God is good… You have no idea how good God has been for me to be here. I never once said, ‘God, why me?’”
Back to the Sidelines: New Season Ahead
Sanders confirmed he will lead the Colorado Buffaloes into the upcoming season — his third year as head coach. Last season, with his son Shedeur at quarterback, Colorado finished 9-4 and reached the Alamo Bowl. This year brings a new challenge: finding Shedeur’s replacement.
Top candidates include:
- Julian Lewis – a 17-year-old five-star recruit and No. 2 player in the 2025 ESPN 300
- Kaidon Salter – a seasoned transfer who started 24 games at Liberty
“It will be the first season I’m not coaching a team with Shedeur at quarterback,” Sanders admitted.
A Message Beyond Football
Beyond football, Sanders urged everyone to get regular medical checkups:
“Get checked out, get checked out… Everyone knows someone affected by the ‘C’ word.”
Team trainer Lauren Askevold praised Sanders’ spirit:
“He never folded one time and never wavered… You couldn’t ask for a better patient.”
Same Swagger, New Perspective
Appearing in a cowboy hat, overalls, and sunglasses, Sanders balanced humor and honesty about life after cancer. Dr. Kukreja confirmed he’s cleared to coach and praised his resilience:
“It is a learning curve, for sure, but his outlook is very good.”
Conclusion: Still Fighting, Now Cancer-Free
Deion Sanders’ journey — from blood clots, toe amputations, and now beating bladder cancer — is a testament to determination and faith. As the Buffaloes prepare for a new chapter without Shedeur at quarterback, Coach Prime remains a symbol of strength, humor, and hope — both on and off the field.
Early detection saves lives. Sanders’ story is a powerful reminder to check in with your doctor — because if it can happen to Prime, it can happen to anyone.
Deion Sanders, Bladder Cancer, Colorado Buffaloes, Coach Prime, College Football, Cancer Survivor, Sports News, Health News, NCAA Football, Inspirational Stories,
