Colorado coach Deion Sanders has truly turned the college football world on its head since taking the reins in Boulder. After a dismal 1-11 season in 2022, the Buffaloes have seen a remarkable resurgence under his leadership. Yet, as NFL legend and three-time Super Bowl champion Troy Aikman suggests, the transformation Sanders has orchestrated might just be the beginning of an even more impressive journey.
What’s Next for Deion Sanders?
Aikman, who now serves as the lead color commentator for ESPN’s “Monday Night Football,” recently shared his thoughts on Sanders’ future. During a conversation with TMZ Sports, he touched on the possibility of Sanders making a leap to the NFL as a head coach. Aikman believes that while Sanders has made waves in college football, his talents could shine even brighter at the professional level—especially if he were to coach his sons, Shilo and Shedeur Sanders.
Could we see Deion Sanders trading in his college playbook for an NFL one? Aikman certainly thinks it’s a possibility. “I could see it,” he remarked, hinting at the idea of Sanders potentially stepping in to replace Mike McCarthy in Dallas. Aikman emphasized that if Sanders were to land an NFL gig, it would be due to his undeniable skills as a football coach, not just his celebrity status.
The Dallas Connection
The connection between Sanders and the Dallas Cowboys runs deep. Aikman, who played alongside Sanders from 1996 to 1999, highlighted that the relationship between Sanders and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones could play a significant role in any potential hiring decisions. “But secondly, I do know that Jerry [Jones] is a world-class marketer,” Aikman explained. “Deion, obviously, is not far behind that, and if you were to put the two together, it would be quite interesting.”
This partnership could lead to a compelling synergy, especially given Sanders’ recent success in Boulder. Aikman noted that Sanders’ statement about having “put the kickstand down” signals that he’s not just content to stay in college football; he’s ready for a serious conversation about his future. If NFL teams want him, they’ll need to come prepared to make a competitive offer.
Colorado’s Remarkable Turnaround
Under Sanders’ guidance, the Buffaloes have shown tremendous growth. They finished the 2023 season ranked No. 23 in the final College Football Playoff rankings, just shy of a postseason berth. With a record of three losses, they were among seven teams that narrowly missed out on the expanded 12-team playoff field.
The team’s journey this season was not without its challenges. Colorado barely missed out on a Big 12 title appearance, a fate determined by a late-season loss to Kansas. This defeat prevented the Buffaloes from controlling their destiny in the final week of the regular season. Still, the progress they’ve made is undeniable, and fans are buzzing with excitement for what’s to come.
Looking Ahead: The Alamo Bowl
As the Buffaloes gear up for their upcoming matchup against BYU in the Alamo Bowl on December 28, anticipation is high. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET, and this game presents a chance for Colorado to secure its first 10-win season since 2016. The stakes are high, and the players are eager to prove that their hard work has paid off.
Sanders’ current contract with Colorado runs for three more years as part of a five-year deal. Discussions about an extension are ongoing, but the buzz around his potential move to the NFL is palpable. Will he stay in Boulder to continue building the Buffaloes’ program, or will he take the leap to the professional ranks?
The Legacy of Deion Sanders
As a player, Deion Sanders was a force to be reckoned with, known for his speed, agility, and game-changing abilities. Now, as a coach, he’s proving that his talents extend beyond the field. His charisma and leadership have not only revitalized the Colorado program but have also captured the attention of the NFL community.
The question remains: what does the future hold for Deion Sanders? Will he continue to build a legacy in college football, or will he make the jump to the NFL, where he could potentially reshape a franchise? One thing is for sure—wherever he goes, excitement will follow.
In a world where college football and the NFL often feel like two separate entities, Deion Sanders is a bridge between the two. His journey is just beginning, and fans from both realms are eager to see what comes next. Whether in Boulder or Dallas, the impact of Coach Sanders is sure to be felt for years to come.
