Deion Sanders announced in August 2026 that he is cancer-free and ready to coach the Colorado Buffaloes for the upcoming football season [1, 2]. Sanders underwent treatment including the removal and reconstruction of his bladder after an aggressive bladder cancer diagnosis in 2025 that threatened his coaching future [1, 2].
He faced severe health struggles last year—diagnosed with bladder cancer during a vascular exam and battling blood clots that required surgery in 2023 and a clot removal procedure following the 2025 season [1, 2]. Sanders recalled the challenges he faced, describing how bladder reconstruction caused incontinence problems: "Now you're sitting in the room, don't know what's what, can't control your bladder. You're peeing in the bed" [2]. Despite these setbacks, he manages his condition while coaching [2].
Sanders highlighted his return to health and spirit: "I've got my health back. I've got my swagger back. Last year at this time, I was fighting cancer, didn't know which way it was going to go. ... I'm fully back now" [1]. He added, "I'm cancer free. I'm good. Great doctors in Colorado that [have] brought me through. God has brought me through. I'm thankful, I'm healthy. I got my swagger back. Like, I'm ready to go, coach my butt off. And I'm having a good time" [2].
Colorado football struggled on the field in 2025, dropping from nine wins in 2024 to a 9-9 loss record last season [1]. However, Sanders has fully returned to coaching and led a strong recruiting class through the transfer portal, adding 43 players and earning a No. 23 national ranking for 2026 recruiting by 247Sports [1].
Sanders’ health battles began in June 2023 when he had surgery to improve circulation due to blood clots. In 2025, the cancer diagnosis came during a vascular exam, followed by a clot removal procedure after the season concluded [1, 2].
The Buffaloes open their 2026 campaign with Sanders fully recovered and leading a rebuilt team combining new transfers and returning players.
