Deion Sanders Reveals Bladder Cancer Diagnosis and Surgery, Confirms Colorado Coaching Return

Author: Zamal Uddin
Keywords: Deion Sanders cancer diagnosis, Deion Sanders bladder surgery, Colorado football coach health update, Coach Prime news, Deion Sanders return

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Colorado Coach Deion Sanders Opens Up About Cancer Battle

Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders, widely known as Coach Prime, has officially revealed that he underwent bladder cancer surgery earlier this year. The announcement came during a press conference in Colorado on July 28, 2025, where Sanders spoke alongside his medical team, including Dr. Janet Kukreja and athletic trainer Lauren Askevold.

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“It’s Been a Tremendous Journey” – Sanders

The 57-year-old coach disclosed that the cancer diagnosis came unexpectedly during routine medical checks for existing vascular issues. Despite having no visible symptoms, doctors discovered a high-risk, non-muscle-invasive bladder tumor, leading to a critical decision for surgery.

“I’ve lost 25 pounds and can’t pee like I used to, but I’m grateful to be here,” Sanders shared with humor. “I always knew I was going to coach again. Retirement was never an option.”

Sanders explained that his bladder was removed, and doctors created a new bladder using part of his small intestine.

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How Doctors Discovered Deion Sanders’ Cancer

• Initial Check: Sanders went in for vascular evaluations related to his previous blood clot issues.

• Diagnosis: Doctors identified a tumor with a 50% chance of spreading if untreated.

• Surgery: Conducted in May with robotic assistance to completely remove the cancer.

• Recovery: Sanders spent May and June recovering at his Texas estate before returning to Colorado in late July.

Dr. Kukreja highlighted the urgency, noting that only 10% of patients survive five years if the tumor spreads to muscle tissue. Sanders opted for full bladder removal instead of recurring treatments to ensure a more permanent solution.

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Previous Health Challenges

This isn’t Sanders’ first major health scare. In 2021, he suffered compartment syndrome, leading to partial amputation of two toes on his left foot. He also underwent multiple surgeries for blood clots in 2023, causing him to miss Pac-12 media days.

Despite these setbacks, Sanders has consistently returned to coaching, proving his resilience and dedication to football.

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Deion Sanders’ Coaching Future at Colorado

Sanders confirmed that he will continue coaching Colorado football and is preparing for his third season with the Buffaloes. His five-year, $10M per year contract includes a clause requiring notification of extended absences but does not penalize him if he retires due to health reasons.

He assured fans that coaching remains his passion:

“If you see a Porta Potty on the sideline, it’s real. But make no mistake—I’m coaching this season.”

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✅ Quick Facts:

• Diagnosis: High-risk bladder cancer

• Treatment: Bladder removal and reconstruction

• Timeline: Diagnosed in April, surgery in May, returned in July

• Current Status: Cancer-free and ready to coach

• Contract Impact: No termination or buyout required if health prevents coaching

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Final Thoughts

Deion Sanders’ battle with bladder cancer highlights the importance of early screening and resilience in the face of life-threatening health challenges. With his successful surgery and recovery, Coach Prime is set to lead Colorado football into another season while serving as an inspiration to fans nationwide.

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