Next season marks a significant transition for Deion Sanders, as he prepares to coach the Colorado Buffaloes without either of his sons, Shedeur and Shilo Sanders, on the roster. This change is monumental for Sanders, who has spent the last few years coaching both his sons, first at Jackson State and then at Colorado. Now, he finds himself in a new role, one that he believes will allow him to focus more on the entire team rather than just his family.
Deion Sanders’ first team meeting without Shedeur, Shilo: ‘Now I can just be a coach and not be a dad’
In a recent team meeting captured by Well Off Media, Sanders expressed his emotions about this new chapter in his coaching career. “It’s an honor and a privilege to be standing before you. I’ve been praying about this day. I’ve been anticipating this day,” he shared with palpable excitement. “This is the first day I’ve been up here without two knuckleheads in here.” The absence of his sons marks a significant emotional shift for Sanders, who has always had them by his side in his coaching journey.
“This is the first day I’m coaching without my boys, which is a pleasure and an honor for me,” Sanders continued. “So now I could just be a coach. I don’t have to be no dad, and I like that, and I love that.” This sentiment reflects his eagerness to embrace his role as head coach fully, focusing on the growth and development of all his players.
Embracing a New Coaching Dynamic
During a Friday morning appearance on ESPN’s First Take, Sanders elaborated on how the absence of his sons will impact his coaching style. “It’s not that I would be a better coach,” he clarified. “Now I think it’s a lot more freedom because I’m not playing two roles. I’m just the best head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes I can be.” This shift allows him to devote his attention entirely to his team, fostering an environment where he can support each player without the distraction of parental concerns.
He explained, “I don’t have the aspect of worrying about a son now or sons. So I don’t have to, okay, I’m looking at him but I’m checking Shilo, I’m looking at him but I’m checking Shedeur. No, no, no. … Now, I’m really just loving on these other kids and just trying to be there for ’em in every aspect of life.” This newfound focus could lead to a more cohesive and motivated team, as Sanders aims to build strong relationships with his players.
Looking Ahead to the Future
As he prepares for this new season, Sanders acknowledges the challenges ahead. He has been coaching since his days as an offensive coordinator at Trinity Leadership School, where he guided Shedeur as his quarterback. Following that, he took the helm at Jackson State, where both Shedeur and Shilo played under him. After two successful seasons there, they transitioned together to Colorado, creating a unique family dynamic within the team.
Now, both Shedeur and Shilo are pursuing their dreams of playing at the next level. Shedeur is projected to be one of the top picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, while Shilo is working hard to improve his draft stock this spring. Their absence will undoubtedly change the atmosphere for Sanders, but he is ready to embrace this new challenge with enthusiasm.
Building Bonds with New Players
Despite the absence of his sons, Sanders is committed to forming strong connections with his new players. “I feel like I’m going to treat somebody in here or a multitude of y’all in here like you were sons because I love y’all just that much because you could’ve chosen anybody but you chose us and I feel like you chose me,” he said, emphasizing his dedication to nurturing his athletes.
In a light-hearted moment during the meeting, Sanders joked about expecting Shilo to be late or miss the meeting entirely, showcasing his playful side even amidst this significant change. “I’m looking back. Shilo told me I was going to get mad at him for not being in the meeting today knowing he not supposed to be in the meeting today,” he quipped, reminding everyone of the familial bond he shares with his sons.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Coach Prime
As Coach Prime heads back to Boulder, he is ready to embrace this new chapter in his coaching career. While it may be a change without his sons on the team, it’s also a welcome opportunity for him to focus on the growth and development of all his players. With a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to building strong relationships, Sanders is poised to lead the Colorado Buffaloes to new heights. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting one for both Sanders and his team as they embark on this journey together.
