NFL legend and Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders, known as Coach Prime, shared a powerful update on his health during a press conference in Boulder on Monday, July 28, 2025. The 57-year-old Hall of Famer revealed he was diagnosed with bladder cancer earlier this year but is now cancer-free following a successful surgery to remove his bladder. His resilience and optimism shone through as he spoke alongside his medical team, inspiring fans and urging others to prioritize health checkups.
A Shocking Diagnosis
Sanders’ cancer journey began unexpectedly during a routine CT scan for vascular issues, a precaution due to his history of blood clots, which previously led to the amputation of two toes in 2021. The scan revealed a malignant tumor in his bladder, diagnosed as high-grade, non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer on April 14, 2025. Dr. Janet Kukreja, director of urologic oncology at the University of Colorado’s Anschutz Medical Campus, described the tumor as aggressive, with a 50% recurrence rate if treated conservatively. Sanders, determined to avoid weekly treatments that would disrupt his coaching and family life, opted for a robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery on May 9 to remove his bladder and create a new one from intestinal tissue.
A Courageous Recovery
The surgery was a success, and Dr. Kukreja announced, “I am pleased to report that the results from the surgery are that he is cured from the cancer.” Sanders spent three months recovering at his ranch in Canton, Texas, away from his team, supported by visits from friends like former NFL stars Randy Moss, Michael Irvin, and Nate Newton. Despite losing 25 pounds and facing ongoing challenges with bladder control—joking, “I depend on Depend”—Sanders remained upbeat, emphasizing faith and gratitude. “You have no idea how good God has been to me,” he told reporters, his trademark charisma intact.
Protecting His Family
Sanders kept his diagnosis private, even from his sons, Shedeur and Shilo, who were navigating their NFL draft preparations, and star player Travis Hunter. “They didn’t know the extent of it,” he said, wanting them to focus on their careers. His son Deion Jr., however, stayed by his side throughout, documenting moments of the journey. In a video posted by Well Off Media, Sanders reflected on the emotional weight of making a will, saying, “Yesterday was tough because I had to think I may not be here.” His transparency about the ordeal, shared with his team on Sunday, underscored his leadership.
Back to Coaching
Returning to Boulder on Friday, Sanders is ready to lead the Buffaloes into the 2025 season, starting with their opener against Georgia Tech on August 29. “I’m back, baby,” he declared, dispelling rumors about retirement. Despite a new “way of life” with routine scans and adjustments like a potential sideline porta-potty, Sanders is committed to coaching without leaning heavily on his staff. His third season follows a 9-4 record in 2024, bolstered by players like Travis Hunter, who won the Heisman Trophy. With Shedeur and Shilo now in the NFL, Sanders faces the challenge of selecting a new quarterback, with freshman Julian Lewis and transfer Kaidon Salter in contention.
A Call to Action
Sanders used his platform to urge others, especially men, to get regular checkups. “If it wasn’t for me getting tested for something else, they wouldn’t have stumbled upon this,” he said, crediting his medical team for catching the cancer early. Dr. Kukreja noted that bladder cancer, the 10th leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., is more common in men, making early detection critical. Sanders’ candidness—blending humor, faith, and vulnerability—has resonated widely, with fans on X expressing relief and admiration for his recovery.
A Legacy of Resilience
Coach Prime’s journey adds another chapter to his storied career as a two-time Super Bowl champion and nine-time Pro Bowler. His openness about battling cancer, from the emotional toll of writing a will to joking about his new reliance on absorbent undergarments, showcases the strength that defines him. As he prepares to lead Colorado, Sanders’ story is a testament to faith, early detection, and the power of community support. Fans and players alike rally behind him, inspired by his unwavering spirit.