{{Short description|American football coach and former player (born 1967)}} {{Redirect|Coach Prime|the TV series|Coach Prime (TV series)}} {{Use American English|date=November 2019}} {{Use mdy dates|date=March 2024}} {{Infobox gridiron football biography | name = Deion Sanders | image = Deion Sanders (8216060) (cropped).jpg | alt = | caption = Sanders as Colorado Buffaloes head coach, 2024 | number = <!--21, 37 --> | current_team = Colorado Buffaloes | position = Head coach<!--Cornerback--> | career_position = Cornerback | career_number = 21, 37 | birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1967|8|9}} | birth_place = Fort Myers, Florida, U.S. | death_date = | death_place = | height_ft = 6 | height_in = 1 | weight_lb = 195 | high_school = North Fort Myers {{nowrap|(North Fort Myers, Florida)}} | college = Florida State (1985–1988) | draftyear = 1989 | draftround = 1 | draftpick = 5 | pastteams = * Atlanta Falcons ({{NFL Year|1989|1993}}) * San Francisco 49ers ({{NFL Year|1994}}) * Dallas Cowboys ({{NFL Year|1995|1999}}) * Washington Redskins ({{NFL Year|2000}}) * Baltimore Ravens ({{NFL Year|2004|2005}}) | pastcoaching = * Prime Prep Academy (2012–2013) <br> Head coach * Triple A Academy (2015–2016) <br> Head coach * Trinity Christian (2017–2019) <br> Offensive coordinator * Jackson State (2020–2022) <br> Head coach * Colorado (2023–present) <br> Head coach | highlights = '''{{center|Playing}}''' * 2× Super Bowl champion (XXIX, XXX) * NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1994) * 6× First-team All-Pro (1992–1994, 1996–1998) * 2× Second-team All-Pro (1991, 1999) * 8× Pro Bowl (1991–1994, 1996–1999) * NFL kick return yards leader (1992) * NFL 1990s All-Decade Team * NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team * PFWA All-Rookie Team (1989) * Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor * Jim Thorpe Award (1988) * 2× Unanimous All-American (1987, 1988) * Third-team All-American (1986) * NCAA punt return yards leader (1988) * First-team AP All-Time All-American (2025) * Florida State Seminoles No. 2 honored '''{{center|Coaching}}''' * 2× SWAC champion (2021, 2022) * 2× SWAC East Division champion (2021, 2022) * 2× SWAC Coach of the Year (2021, 2022) * ''SI'' Sportsman of the Year (2023) * Eddie Robinson Award (2021) | statlabel1 = Tackles | statvalue1 = 512 | statlabel2 = Interception | statvalue2 = 53 | statlabel3 = Interception yards | statvalue3 = 1,331 | statlabel4 = Forced fumbles | statvalue4 = 10 | statlabel5 = Fumble recoveries | statvalue5 = 13 | statlabel6 = Punt return yards | statvalue6 = 2,199 | statlabel7 = Kick return yards | statvalue7 = 3,523 | statlabel8 = Receptions | statvalue8 = 60 | statlabel9 = Receiving yards | statvalue9 = 784 | statlabel10 = Touchdowns | statvalue10 = 22 | coachrecord = {{Winning percentage|43|27|record=y}} (college)<br>{{Winning percentage|17|21|record=y}} (high school) | HOF = deion-sanders | CollegeHOF = 2313 }} '''Deion Luwynn Sanders Sr.''' (born August 9, 1967), commonly known as '''Deion Sanders''', is an American football coach and former player who is the head football coach at the University of Colorado Boulder. Nicknamed "'''Prime Time'''" and "'''Coach Prime'''", he played in the National Football League (NFL) for 14 seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, Washington Redskins, and Baltimore Ravens. Sanders was also a baseball outfielder for nine seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the New York Yankees, Atlanta Braves, Cincinnati Reds, and San Francisco Giants. He won two Super Bowl titles and made one World Series appearance in 1992, making him the only athlete to play in both a Super Bowl and a World Series.
Sanders played college football for the Florida State Seminoles, winning the Jim Thorpe Award in 1988. He was selected by the Falcons fifth overall in the 1989 NFL draft. Primarily a cornerback, he received eight Pro Bowl and six first-team All-Pro selections. Sanders also made consecutive Super Bowl appearances in Super Bowl XXIX with the 49ers and Super Bowl XXX with the Cowboys, winning both. He was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2011.
After retiring as a player, Sanders pursued a sports analyst and coaching career. He served as the head coach at Jackson State University from 2020 to 2022, leading them to two consecutive Celebration Bowl appearances and the first undefeated regular season in school history. Sanders was named the head football coach of Colorado in 2023.
==Early life== Sanders was born on August 9, 1967, in Fort Myers, Florida, to Connie Sanders and Mims Sanders.<ref>{{cite web | last=Montoya | first=Melissa | title=Former NFL star Deion Sanders apologizes to hometown in long-awaited return | website=Daily American Online | date=May 5, 2019 | url=https://www.dailyamerican.com/story/news/2019/05/05/former-nfl-star-deion-sanders-apologizes-to-hometown-in-long-awaited-return/116124472/ | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref> His parents divorced when Sanders was two years old. Sanders was raised by his mother and her new husband, Willie Knight, whom Sanders credits with being influential in his life. He attended North Fort Myers High School, and was a letterman and All-State honoree in football, basketball and baseball. In 1985, Sanders was named to the Florida High School Association All-Century Team which selected the top 33 players in the 100-year history of high school football in the state.{{citation needed|date=September 2025}}
The Kansas City Royals selected Sanders out of North Fort Myers High School in the sixth round of the 1985 Major League Baseball draft.<ref>{{Cite web |title=6th Round of the 1985 MLB June Amateur Draft |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/draft/ |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> However, he did not sign with the Royals. Sanders decided to play with Florida State University instead of signing with the Kansas City Royals.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Haft |first=Chris |title=Deion enjoyed 'Prime' moments on diamond |url=http://m.mlb.com/news/article/16568972/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150205182713/http://m.mlb.com/news/article/16568972/ |archive-date=February 5, 2015 |access-date=February 5, 2015 |website=Major League Baseball}}</ref>
On the ''New Heights'' podcast, Sanders revealed his first name is spelled "Dion" but he started spelling it "Deion" when learning the nursery rhyme "Old MacDonald Had a Farm" as a child.<ref>{{Cite web |author1-link=New Heights |title=Deion Sanders really changed his name because of a nursery rhyme 💀 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYBNrnaXXPU |website=youtube.com |publisher=New Heights |language=en |format=video |date=September 22, 2025}}</ref>
== College career == [[File:FSU football player Deion Sanders Tallahassee, Florida.jpg|thumb|Sanders with the Florida State Seminoles football team, 1988]]
Sanders enrolled at Florida State University and played three sports for the Florida State Seminoles: football, baseball, and track. Beginning in his freshman year, he started in the Seminoles' secondary, played outfield for the baseball team that finished fifth in the nation, and helped lead the track and field team to a conference championship.
Under head coach Bobby Bowden, Sanders was a third-team All-American in 1986, and a two-time unanimous All-American cornerback in 1987 and 1988, intercepting 14 passes in his career, including three in bowl games, and managed to return one interception 100 yards for a touchdown, breaking Fred Biletnikoff's interception return record by one yard.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Consensus All-America Teams (1980-1989) |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/all-america-1980-1989.html |access-date=2026-05-05 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> He won the Jim Thorpe Award in 1988. He was also a standout punt returner for Florida State, leading the nation in 1988 with his punt return average,<ref>{{Cite web |title=1988 College Football Leaders |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/years/1988-leaders.html |access-date=November 21, 2025 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> and breaking the school's record for career punt return yards. Sanders made an interception with five seconds left to seal Florida State's 13–7 win over Auburn in the 1989 Sugar Bowl during the 1988 postseason.<ref>{{cite web | last=Scarbinsky | first=Kevin | title=Auburn-Florida State: Deion Sanders has the last word in the 1989 Sugar Bowl (series) | website=AL.com| date=December 28, 2013 | url=https://www.al.com/auburnfootball/2013/12/auburn-florida_state_deion_san.html | access-date=May 7, 2026}}</ref> Based on those accolades, his No. 2 jersey at Florida State was retired in 1995. He finished his career with 126 punt returns for 1,429 yards and three touchdowns, as well as 14 interceptions, returning them for 287 yards and three scores. At the end of his FSU career, Sanders' 14 interceptions was the second highest total in school history.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://issuu.com/flstateseminoles/docs/floridastatefootballguide2010 |title = Florida State Football Guide |date = August 17, 2010 |publisher = Issuu.com |access-date = August 16, 2012 |archive-date = December 25, 2024 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20241225053258/https://issuu.com/flstateseminoles/docs/floridastatefootballguide2010 |url-status = dead }}</ref> Bowden would later state that Sanders was his "measuring stick for athletic ability".<ref name="s237">{{cite web | last=Price | first=S.L. | title=CUT OFF FROM THE HERD | website=Sports Illustrated Vault | date=1997-08-25 | url=https://vault.si.com/vault/1997/08/25/cut-off-from-the-herd-randy-moss-the-most-gifted-player-in-college-football-is-leading-the-revival-of-a-marshall-program-still-haunted-by-a-devastating-1970-plane-crash-but-moss-cares-little-about-the-thundering-herds-past-and | access-date=2024-09-26}}</ref>
[[File:Track team at FSU makes a victory lap - Tallahassee, Florida.jpg|thumb|right|From left to right, Arthur Blake, Dexter Carter, Sanders and Sammie Smith taking a victory lap around Mike Long Track after setting a Metro Conference record in the 4 × 100 meter relay during a meet in 1988]]
While playing baseball under head coach Mike Martin at Florida State, Sanders' batting average was .331 in 1986. He also compiled 27 stolen bases in 1987.<ref name="z119">{{cite web | last=Donahue | first=Ben | title=The Life And Career Of Deion Sanders (Complete Story) | website=Pro Football History | date=2020-09-22 | url=https://www.profootballhistory.com/deion-sanders/ | access-date=2024-09-26}}</ref>
On May 16, 1987, (while the Metro Conference baseball and track championships were being played simultaneously in Columbia, South Carolina), Sanders played in the conference semifinal baseball game against Southern Mississippi, ran a leg of a 4 × 100 relay, then returned to play in the baseball championship game against Cincinnati.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kiger |first=Fred W. |date=November 15, 2004 |title=ESPN Classic - Prime Time |url=http://www.espn.com/classic/s/add_Sanders_Deion.html |access-date=March 6, 2017 |website=ESPN.com}}</ref> Though Sanders' relay team did not place in the event, the FSU track team was the overall conference champion, and the baseball team won the conference title as well.
== Professional baseball career == {{Infobox baseball biography |name=Deion Sanders |image= |caption= |position=Outfielder |bats=Left |throws=Left |debutleague = MLB |debutdate=May 31 |debutyear=1989 |debutteam=New York Yankees |finalleague = MLB |finaldate=June 14 |finalyear=2001 |finalteam=Cincinnati Reds |statleague = MLB |stat1label=Batting average |stat1value=.263 |stat2label=Home runs |stat2value=39 |stat3label=Runs batted in |stat3value=168 |stat4label=Stolen bases |stat4value=186 |teams= * New York Yankees ({{mlby|1989}}–{{mlby|1990}}) * Atlanta Braves ({{mlby|1991}}–{{mlby|1994}}) * Cincinnati Reds ({{mlby|1994}}–{{mlby|1995}}) * San Francisco Giants ({{mlby|1995}}) * Cincinnati Reds ({{mlby|1997}}, {{mlby|2001}}) }}
===Drafts and minor leagues=== Sanders had a nine-year, part-time baseball career, playing left and center field in 641 games with four teams.<ref name="bbref">{{cite web |title = Deion Sanders Stats |url = https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sandede02.shtml |website = Baseball-Reference.com |publisher = Sports Reference |access-date = January 26, 2021 |language = en }}</ref> He was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the sixth round of the 1985 draft, but did not sign with them.<ref>{{cite web |title = 6th Round of the 1985 MLB June Amateur Draft |url = https://www.baseball-reference.com/draft/?year_ID=1985&draft_round=6&draft_type=junreg&query_type=year_round |website = Baseball-Reference.com |publisher = Sports Reference |access-date = January 26, 2021 |language = en }}</ref> The New York Yankees selected Sanders in the 30th round of the 1988 Major League Baseball draft, and he signed with the team on June 22.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-1988-06-22-8802060380-story.html |title = Sanders to Sign With Yanks; Play 2 Sports |work = Sun Sentinel |date = June 22, 1988|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210628235608/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-1988-06-22-8802060380-story.html |accessdate = November 17, 2021 |archive-date = June 28, 2021 }}</ref> He batted .284 in 28 minor league games after signing.<ref name=springtraining1989/>
The Yankees invited Sanders to spring training in 1989. Assigned to wear no. 71 as a uniform number, Sanders requested a single digit number. The Yankees gave him no. 30, the lowest number available, which offended many veteran players on the team.<ref name=springtraining1989>{{cite web |url = https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-1989-02-26-8901110363-story.html |title = Yankees Vets Tell Sanders: You'Ve Got Wrong Number |work = Sun Sentinel |date = February 26, 1989|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210630140358/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-1989-02-26-8901110363-story.html |accessdate = November 17, 2021 |archive-date = June 30, 2021 }}</ref> Sanders opened the 1989 season with the Albany-Colonie Yankees of the Double–A Eastern League.<ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.nytimes.com/1989/05/18/sports/football-flash-no-flash-in-pan.html |title = Football Flash No Flash In Pan |date = May 18, 1989 |work = The New York Times |access-date = February 5, 2015 }}</ref> Though Sanders planned to leave the Yankees in July to attend NFL training camp,<ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.nytimes.com/1989/04/14/sports/sports-people-football-sanders-nfl-bound.html |title = SPORTS PEOPLE – FOOTBALL – Sanders N.F.L. Bound |date = April 14, 1989 |work = The New York Times |access-date = February 5, 2015 }}</ref> he became embroiled in a contract dispute with the Falcons, and used the Yankees as leverage.
===New York Yankees (1989–1990)=== Sanders received a promotion to the major leagues, and spent the summer with the Columbus Clippers of the Triple–A International League.<ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.nytimes.com/1989/08/29/sports/sports-people-football-deion-sanders-fed-up.html |title = SPORTS PEOPLE – FOOTBALL – Deion Sanders 'Fed Up' |date = August 29, 1989 |work = The New York Times |access-date = February 5, 2015 }}</ref> Sanders made his MLB debut on May 31, 1989.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Sexton |first=Joe |date=June 1, 1989 |title=Sanders Dives Into Prime Time as He Makes Yankee Debut |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1989/06/01/sports/sanders-dives-into-prime-time-as-he-makes-yankee-debut.html |access-date=February 5, 2015 |work=The New York Times}}</ref>
During the 1989 season, Sanders hit a home run and scored a touchdown in the NFL in the same week, becoming the only player ever to do so.<ref>{{cite web | last=Mearns | first=Andrew | title=This Day in Yankees History: Deion Sanders Homers, Scores Touchdown in One Week- September 5, 1989 | website=Pinstripe Alley|publisher=SB Nation | date=2012-09-05 | url=https://www.pinstripealley.com/2012/9/5/3293212/this-day-in-yankees-history-deion-sanders-home-run-touchdown-week-september-5-1989 | access-date=2026-05-07}}</ref> Sanders is also the only person to play in both a Super Bowl and a World Series.<ref name="ESPN"/> Sanders and Bo Jackson were the preeminent multi-sport athletes of their time, but prior to the 1990 season, they had never squared off against each other in a professional game. That changed in 1990, when Jackson and Sanders met five times on the diamond—the most memorable of which came on July 17, in what was billed as "The Bo and Prime Time Show". After Bo Jackson's three-homer night, Sanders said, "He's (Bo's) one of the best athletes who ever put on a uniform."<ref>{{cite web |last1 = Martinez |first1 = Michael |title = Wondering if Sanders Will Stay? So Is He. |url = https://www.nytimes.com/1990/07/18/sports/wondering-if-sanders-will-stay-so-is-he.html |work = The New York Times |access-date = February 16, 2022 |date = July 18, 1990 }}</ref> Sanders himself hit a dramatic inside-the-park home run in the same game that was unsuccessfully fielded by Jackson.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Axisa |first1=Mike |title=VIDEO: Deion Sanders hits inside-the-park homer past Bo Jackson |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/video-deion-sanders-hits-inside-the-park-homer-past-bo-jackson/ |website=CBS Sports |date=January 24, 2014 |publisher=CBS |access-date=22 November 2024}}</ref>
Sanders made the Yankees' Opening Day roster for the 1990 season.<ref name="Yankees, Sanders Have a Parting">{{Cite news |last=Moran |first=Malcolm |date=July 31, 1990 |title=Yankees, Sanders Have a Parting |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1990/07/31/sports/yankees-sanders-have-a-parting.html |access-date=February 5, 2015 |work=The New York Times}}</ref> On May 22, 1990, Sanders became involved in a dispute with Chicago White Sox catcher Carlton Fisk. Sanders started by stepping up to the plate with one out and a runner on third, drawing a dollar sign in the dirt before the pitch and then failed to run to first base after hitting a routine pop fly to shortstop, trotting back to the dugout instead. The Yankee fans booed, and Fisk told Sanders to run the ball out and called Sanders a "piece of shit". Later in the game, Sanders told Fisk that "the days of slavery are over". Fisk was furious, later saying: "He comes up and wants to make it a racial issue, there's no racial issue involved. There is a right way and a wrong way to play this game."<ref name="fisktribune">{{Cite web |last=Kass |first=John |date=2011-01-30 |title=When it comes to heart, truth hurts Sanders |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2011/01/30/when-it-comes-to-heart-truth-hurts-sanders/ |access-date=2024-09-26 |website=Chicago Tribune}}</ref><ref name="fiskNewsday">{{Cite web |last=Donnelly |first=Joe |date=1990-05-24 |title=Fisk's Outburst at Sanders Was One for Yankee Pride |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1990-05-24-sp-378-story.html |access-date=2025-05-02 |website=Los Angeles Times |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="forumchannel">{{Cite web |title=The Forum Channel - Live, Unscripted, Celebrity and Expert Conversations - Captured on Video |url=http://www.theforumchannel.tv/clips-single.aspx?id=219 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160331035849/http://www.theforumchannel.tv/clips-single.aspx?id=219 |archive-date=March 31, 2016 |access-date=2025-05-02 |website=www.theforumchannel.tv |url-status=dead }}</ref>
By mid-July, Sanders expressed that he was unsure if he would remain with the Yankees or report to training camp for the upcoming NFL season.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Martinez |first=Michael |date=July 18, 1990 |title=Is Sanders Staying? He's Puzzled |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1990/07/18/sports/is-sanders-staying-he-s-puzzled.html |access-date=February 5, 2015 |work=The New York Times}}</ref> He requested a $1 million salary for the 1991 season, and the Yankees ended negotiations on a contract extension with Sanders. He left the team, finishing the 1990 season with a .158 batting average and three home runs in 57 games.<ref name="Yankees, Sanders Have a Parting" /> In September 1990, the Yankees placed Sanders on waivers with the intention of giving him his release, as Yankees' general manager Gene Michael said that Sanders' football career was stunting his baseball development.<ref>{{cite | last=Curry | first=Jack | title=BASEBALL; Deion Sanders Placed On Waivers by Yanks | date=1990-09-25 | issn=0362-4331 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1990/09/25/sports/baseball-deion-sanders-placed-on-waivers-by-yanks.html | language=en-US | access-date=2026-04-26 | page=}}</ref>
===Atlanta Braves (1991–1994)=== Sanders later signed with the Atlanta Braves for the 1991 MLB season.<ref>{{cite web | last=Willis | first=Kris | title=This Day in Braves History: Atlanta signs Deion Sanders | website=Battery Power|publisher=SB Nation | date=January 30, 2022 | url=https://www.batterypower.com/2022/1/30/22907982/this-day-in-atlanta-braves-history-january-30 | access-date=May 8, 2026}}</ref> However, he was assigned to the Triple-A Richmond Braves in early May after losing playing time to Otis Nixon before returning to Atlanta in late June.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stephenson |first=Creg |date=January 23, 2020 |title=Braves Throwback Thursday: Deion Sanders' mercurial baseball career |url=https://www.batterypower.com/2020/1/23/21078242/atlanta-braves-throwback-thursday-deion-sanders-mercurial-baseball-career |access-date=September 1, 2025 |website=Battery Power|publisher=SB Nation}}</ref> On July 31, Sanders hit a key three-run homer to spark a comeback win against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the Braves' run to the National League West Division title. However, he left the Braves the very next day to report to the Atlanta Falcons because of a clause in his NFL contract and missed the postseason.<ref name="q678">{{cite web | title=Deion Sanders tried to play two sports in one day | website=MLB.com | date=September 26, 2024 | url=https://www.mlb.com/pirates/news/featured/deion-sanders-tried-to-play-two-sports-in-one-day | access-date=September 26, 2024}}</ref> Before the 1992 season, Sanders reworked his NFL deal, whereby he still reported to the Falcons for training camp in August, but was allowed to rejoin the Braves for the postseason.
[[File:Deion Sanders Braves 1993.jpg|thumb|Sanders batting for the Atlanta Braves in 1993]]
During the 1992 season, his best year in the majors, Sanders hit .304 for the team, stole 26 bases, and led the NL with 14 triples in 97 games.<ref name="bbref" /> In four games of the 1992 World Series, Sanders batted .533 with four runs, eight hits, two doubles, and one RBI while playing with a broken bone in his foot. His batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, total bases and win probability added each led the team in the series. Despite Sanders' performance, the Braves ultimately lost to the Toronto Blue Jays in six games.<ref>{{cite web |title = 1992 World Series - Toronto Blue Jays over Atlanta Braves (4-2) |url = https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/1992_WS.shtml#post_batting_ATL |website = Baseball-Reference.com |publisher = Sports Reference |access-date = January 26, 2021 |language = en }}</ref> In Game 3, he narrowly avoided being a victim of what would have been only the second triple play in World Series history (following Bill Wambsganss' unassisted triple play in 1920). With Sanders on second base and Terry Pendleton on first, David Justice hit a deep fly ball to center field that Blue Jays center fielder Devon White unexpectedly caught with a leaping effort. Pendleton passed Sanders on the bases for the second out, but umpire Bob Davidson called Sanders safe after he scampered back to second base. Replays showed that Toronto third baseman Kelly Gruber tagged him on the heel before he returned to second.<ref>{{Cite web |date=August 20, 2008 |title=World Series champ speaks about tomahawks and triple plays |url=http://www.westernwheel.com/080820/sports-champ.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081117193133/http://www.westernwheel.com/080820/sports-champ.htm |archive-date=November 17, 2008 |website=westernwheel.com}}</ref>
=== Cincinnati Reds (1994–1995) === The Braves traded Sanders to the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for Roberto Kelly on May 30, 1994.<ref>{{cite web |date = May 30, 1994 |title = Sanders Traded for Kelly as Braves, Reds Seek a Fit |url = https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1994-05-30-sp-63889-story.html |access-date = September 21, 2022 |website = Los Angeles Times }}</ref> In 46 games played, Sanders batted .277 and stole 19 bases. The following year, he played in 33 games for the Reds, recording a .240 batting average with 16 stolen bases before being traded to the San Francisco Giants.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Koch |first=Drew |date=February 3, 2019 |title=Cincinnati Reds: A look back at the career of Deion Sanders |url=https://blogredmachine.com/2019/02/03/cincinnati-reds-look-back-career-deion-sanders/ |access-date=September 21, 2022 |website=Blog Red Machine|publisher=FanSided |language=en-US}}</ref>
=== San Francisco Giants (1995) === On July 21, 1995, the Reds traded Sanders, David McCarty, Ricky Pickett, John Roper, and Scott Service to the San Francisco Giants for Dave Burba, Darren Lewis, and Mark Portugal.<ref>{{Cite news |agency = Associated Press |date = July 22, 1995 |title = BASEBALL; Deion Sanders Goes to Giants |language = en-US |work = The New York Times |url = https://www.nytimes.com/1995/07/22/sports/baseball-deion-sanders-goes-to-giants.html |access-date = September 21, 2022 |issn = 0362-4331 }}</ref> He batted .280, hit five home runs and stole eight bases in 52 games for the Giants.<ref>{{Cite web |title = Deion Sanders Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More |url = https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sandede02.shtml |access-date = September 21, 2022 |website = Baseball-Reference.com |language = en }}</ref>
===Cincinnati Reds (1997, 2001)=== In 1997, Sanders finished second in the NL with 56 stolen bases in 115 games while with the Cincinnati Reds before leaving baseball for three years.<ref name="bbref" />
Sanders returned to the Reds in 2001, but was released after playing in only 32 games and batting just .173.<ref name="bbref" /> After Sanders' release from the Reds, he signed a minor league contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, who assigned him to the Triple-A Syracuse SkyChiefs.
Sanders' football contract had been negotiated to allow for him to play both baseball and football, but the terms of the contract stated that Sanders could miss NFL training camp and the first few games of the season only if he were playing Major League Baseball. Since he was not then on an MLB roster, Sanders had to leave Syracuse and return to the Washington Redskins so he would not violate his NFL contract.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Croyle |first1=Johnathan |title=Before re-energizing Colorado football, Deion Sanders brought 'Primetime' to Syracuse's baseball team |url=https://www.syracuse.com/living/2023/09/before-re-energizing-colorado-football-deion-sanders-brought-primetime-to-syracuses-baseball-team.html |access-date=29 September 2023 |work=Syracuse Post-Standard |date=29 September 2023 |language=en}}</ref> In his final professional baseball game, Sanders hit a solo home run and an RBI single in Syracuse's 12–6 win over the Toledo Mud Hens.<ref>{{cite news |date=July 27, 2001 |title=Deion's contract presents major dilemma |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/bluejays/2001-07-27-deion.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160308040325/http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/bluejays/2001-07-27-deion.htm |archive-date=March 8, 2016 |work=USA Today|agency=Associated Press}}</ref> As those in MLB and the NFL urged Sanders to concentrate on only one sport (similar to what they did with Bo Jackson), he often explained, "football is my wife and baseball is my mistress."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Donahue |first=Ben |date=September 22, 2020 |title=The Life And Career Of Deion Sanders (Complete Story) |url=https://www.profootballhistory.com/deion-sanders/ |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro Football History |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | last=Allen | first=John | title=Deion Sanders in pinstripes: A look back through Yankee eyes | website=Pinstripes Nation | date=September 30, 2023 | url=https://pinstripesnation.com/deion-sanders-in-pinstripes-a-look-back-through-yankee-eyes-2023-09-30/ | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref>
== Professional football career == {{BLP sources section|date=July 2013}}
=== Atlanta Falcons (1989–1993) === {{NFL predraft | height ft = 5 | height in = 11 3/4 | weight = 182 | dash = 4.27 | ten split = 1.53 | twenty split = 2.56 }}
At the 1989 NFL Scouting Combine, Sanders ran the 40-yard dash with times of 4.27s and 4.29s.<ref name="Mythical 40-Yard Dash">{{cite web |url = http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-videos/0ap3000000787789/The-True-Story-of-Deion-s-Mythical-40-Yard-Dash |title = Prime's Time: The True Story of Deion's Mythical 40-Yard Dash |website = National Football League |language = en |access-date = April 2, 2017 }}</ref> He was the fifth pick overall in the 1989 NFL draft by the Atlanta Falcons,<ref>{{cite web |url = http://football.about.com/od/nfldrafthistory/a/1989draftresult.htm |title = NFL Draft History |publisher = Football.about.com |date = June 14, 2010 |access-date = October 18, 2010 |archive-date = April 15, 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120415042930/http://football.about.com/od/nfldrafthistory/a/1989draftresult.htm |url-status = dead }}</ref> where he played until 1993. Despite fumbling (and recovering) his first NFL punt return (which was re-kicked on a penalty), Sanders ran for a touchdown on his second attempt of his first game. During his time in Atlanta, he intercepted 24 passes (including a career-high seven in 1993), three of which he returned for touchdowns. We was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week twice in the 1991 season for Weeks 4 and 12.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1991 NFL Week 4 Leaders & Scores |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1991/week_4.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1991 NFL Week 12 Leaders & Scores |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1991/week_12.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> In 1992, he also led the league in kick return yards (1,067), yards per return (26.7), and return touchdowns (two).<ref>{{Cite web |title=1992 NFL Kick & Punt Returns |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1992/returns.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> On October 11, 1992, Sanders played in a Falcons game in Miami and then flew to Pittsburgh, hoping to play in the Braves' League Championship Series game against the Pirates that evening and become the first athlete to play in two professional leagues on the same day.<ref name="ESPN">{{cite web |last=Flatter |first=Ron |date=July 5, 2005 |title=ESPN Classic – Where Sanders goes, teams win |url=https://www.espn.com/classic/biography/s/Sanders_Deion.html |access-date=October 18, 2010 |work=ESPN}}</ref> Sanders, however, did not appear in the baseball game that night.<ref name="ESPN"/><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/PIT/PIT199210110.shtml |title = October 11, 1992 National League Championship Series (NLCS) Game 5, Braves at Pirates |publisher = Baseball-Reference.com |date = October 11, 1992 |access-date = October 18, 2010 }}</ref> In Week 12 of the 1993 season, Sanders had a 70-yard reception for a touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys in the 27–14 victory.<ref>{{cite web | title=Falcons 27, Cowboys 14 | website=UPI | date=November 21, 1993 | url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1993/11/21/Falcons-27-Cowboys-14/7545753858000/ | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref> For November 1993, he was NFC Defensive Player of the Month.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Players of the Month |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/players-of-the-month.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> He was a three-time Pro Bowler with the Falcons (1991–1993) and earned first team All-Pro honors twice (1992–1993).<ref>{{Cite web |title=1991 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1991/probowl.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1992 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1992/probowl.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1993 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1993/probowl.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1992 NFL All-Pros |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1992/allpro.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1993 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1993/probowl.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> During his five years playing with the Falcons, Sanders scored ten touchdowns (three defensive, three kick returns, two punt returns, and two receptions).<ref>{{cite web | title=Deion Sanders | website=Atlanta Falcons | url=https://www.atlantafalcons.com/team/history/ring-of-honor/deion-sanders | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref>
=== San Francisco 49ers (1994) === After five seasons with Atlanta, Sanders signed on to play the 1994 season with the San Francisco 49ers.<ref>{{cite web | title=FOOTBALL; Sanders Says He'll Join 49ers|website=The New York Times | date=1994-09-15 | issn=0362-4331 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1994/09/15/sports/football-sanders-says-he-ll-join-49ers.html | language=en-US | access-date=2026-05-05 | page=}}</ref> He had arguably his best season as a professional football player, recording six interceptions and returning them for an NFL-best 303 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 50.5 yards per return. (Average yards per interception return is not an official NFL statistic however.)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Deion Sanders 1994 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandDe00/gamelog/1994/ |access-date=2024-09-26 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1994 NFL Defense |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1994/defense.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> It was also the most interception return yardage in a single-season since Charlie McNeil in 1961. In Week 4, against the New Orleans Saints, he had a 74-yard interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the 24–13 win.<ref>{{cite web | last=Lang III| first=Roy | title=On This Day: Deion Sanders' late pick-6 does in Saints | website=The Shreveport-Bossier City Advocate | date=September 25, 2023 | url=https://www.shreveportbossieradvocate.com/sports/saints/on-this-day-deion-sanders-late-pick-6-does-in-saints/article_6dcfb88a-598b-11ee-b22e-6bac67a7a044.html | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref> He was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1994 NFL Week 4 Leaders & Scores |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1994/week_4.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> Two of his interceptions were returned for a gain of at least 90 yards, making him the first player to do this in NFL history. On October 16, 1994, Sanders made his dramatic return to the Georgia Dome in a 49er uniform. After getting into a scuffle with his former Falcon teammate Andre Rison, Sanders intercepted a pass from quarterback Jeff George and returned it 93 yards while mockingly staring down the entire Falcons sideline before high-stepping into the end zone.<ref>{{cite web | agency=Associated Press | title=SANDERS, RISON FINED FOR SKIRMISH | website=Deseret News | date=October 20, 1994 | url=https://www.deseret.com/1994/10/20/19137414/sanders-rison-fined-for-skirmish/ | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | agency=Associated Press | title=Deion Provides Fists and Fireworks : NFC: He steals the show in what he calls 'my house,' helping 49ers rout the Falcons, 42-3. | website=Los Angeles Times | date=October 17, 1994 | url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1994-10-17-sp-51406-story.html | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref> Sanders was later voted the 1994 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=AP Defensive Player of the Year Winners |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/ap-defensive-player-of-the-year.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> He earned Pro Bowl and first team All Pro honors for the 1994 season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1994 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1994/probowl.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1994 NFL All-Pros |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1994/allpro.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> In Super Bowl XXIX, he recorded an end zone interception in the fourth quarter as the 49ers won over the San Diego Chargers, earning him his first championship ring.<ref name="u556">{{cite magazine | last=Kazmierczak | first=Anthony | title=OTD: Deion Sanders made history in 49ers last Super Bowl win | magazine=Sports Illustrated | date=2024-01-30 | url=https://www.si.com/college/colorado/buffs-social/deion-sanders-made-history-in-49ers-last-super-bowl-win | access-date=2024-09-26}}</ref>
=== Dallas Cowboys (1995–1999) === Sanders, along with his agent Eugene Parker, courted several teams in need of a cornerback. The teams in the "Deion Sweepstakes", as it was called by the media, were the Philadelphia Eagles, Oakland Raiders, Miami Dolphins, New Orleans Saints, San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys, who had lost their starting cornerback Kevin Smith to injury for the rest of the season.
On September 9, 1995, (in week 2 of the season), Sanders signed a lucrative contract with the Dallas Cowboys (seven years, $35 million with a $12.99 million signing bonus, because owner Jerry Jones was superstitious about the number 13),<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.dallascowboys.com/news/2016/03/18/spagnola-taking-big-hacks-free-agency-can-produce-foul-balls |title = Taking Big Hacks In Free Agency Can Produce Foul Balls |publisher = DallasCowboys.com |date = March 18, 2016 |access-date = March 18, 2016 |archive-date = March 20, 2016 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160320171151/http://www.dallascowboys.com/news/2016/03/18/spagnola-taking-big-hacks-free-agency-can-produce-foul-balls |url-status = dead }}</ref> essentially making him at the time, the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL. Sanders later stated in his book ''Power, Money & Sex: How Success Almost Ruined My Life'' that the Oakland Raiders offered him more money than any other team, but he chose to play in Dallas for more time on the offensive side of the ball, a chance to win back-to-back Super Bowls, and because of his friendship with Cowboys wide receiver Michael Irvin.<ref>{{cite web | last=Scales | first=Kristi | title=Why Deion Sanders 'without a doubt' made the biggest free agency splash in Cowboys history | website=Dallas News | date=March 14, 2018 | url=https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/cowboys/2018/03/14/why-deion-sanders-without-a-doubt-made-the-biggest-free-agency-splash-in-cowboys-history/ | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref> Arthroscopic surgery kept him sidelined until his debut in week 9, which was once again in Atlanta against the Falcons; the Cowboys won, 28–13.<ref>{{cite web | title=Deion Sanders to have ankle surgery | website=UPI | date=September 24, 1995 | url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1995/09/24/Deion-Sanders-to-have-ankle-surgery/9348811915200/ | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Plaschke |first=Bill |author-link=Bill Plaschke |date=October 30, 1995 |title=Deion Back in Saddle Again : Pro football: Sanders makes an electrifying Cowboy debut on offense and defense in 28-13 victory over the Falcons. |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-10-30-sp-62823-story.html |access-date=May 9, 2026 |website=Los Angeles Times}}</ref> He went on to help the Cowboys win their third title in four years in Super Bowl XXX against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he returned a punt for 11 yards and caught a 47-yard reception on offense, setting up Dallas's first touchdown of the game and a 27–17 victory.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Super Bowl XXX - Dallas Cowboys vs. Pittsburgh Steelers - January 28th, 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199601280dal.htm |access-date=2024-12-04 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> In Week 3 of the 1998 season, Sanders had a 59-yard punt return for a touchdown and a 71-yard interception return for a touchdown against the New York Giants.<ref>{{cite web | last=Shapiro | first=Leonard | title=HERO SANDERS GETS THE GIANTS' GOAT | website=The Washington Post | date=September 22, 1998 | url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/1998/09/22/hero-sanders-gets-the-giants-goat/3d5c7f18-80be-4870-ad08-396db4859c83/ | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref> Sanders played four more seasons with Dallas, earning Pro Bowl selections in all of them.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1996 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1996/probowl.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1997 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1997/probowl.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1998 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1998/probowl.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1999 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1999/probowl.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> He was named first team All-Pro for the 1996–1998 seasons.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1996 NFL All-Pros |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1996/allpro.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1997 NFL All-Pros |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1997/allpro.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1998 NFL All-Pros |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1998/allpro.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> On June 2, 2000, he was released in a salary cap move.<ref>{{cite web |date=June 3, 2000 |title=Cowboys Make Deion Free Man |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1129&dat=20000603&id=7pJSAAAAIBAJ&pg=6900,1122515 |access-date=March 18, 2016 |work=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette|via=Google News}}</ref>
===Washington Redskins (2000)=== Soon after the Cowboys released Sanders, the Washington Redskins signed Sanders to a seven-year, $56 million contract.<ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/redskins/daily/june00/22/charts22.htm |title = How $100 Million Becomes $62.2 Million |newspaper = The Washington Post |date = June 2000 }}</ref> In Week 5 of the 2000 season, he recorded a 57-yard punt return to set Washington up for a game-winning field goal in overtime against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.<ref>{{cite web | title='Skins Sink Bucs In OT | website=CBS News |agency=Associated Press| date=October 1, 2000 | url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/skins-sink-bucs-in-ot/ | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref> Sanders was named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2000 NFL Week 5 Leaders & Scores |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2000/week_5.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> At the end of the 2000 season and an above-average statistical year, Sanders abruptly retired in July 2001 after only playing one year with the Redskins.<ref name="u159">{{cite news | last=Maske | first=Mark | title=Deion Sanders Retires | newspaper=Washington Post | date=2001-07-28 | url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/politics/2001/07/28/deion-sanders-retires/ec0d31eb-7c77-4c3e-9f9c-8ebba473b6ad/ | access-date=2024-12-04}}</ref>
On December 23, 2002, the Redskins waived Sanders from the reserve/retired list in order to potentially allow him to play for the Oakland Raiders in the 2002–03 NFL playoffs.<ref>{{cite web | last=Maske | first=Mark | title=For Lack Of a Better Option, Redskins Waive Sanders | website=The Washington Post | date=December 24, 2002 | url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/2002/12/24/for-lack-of-a-better-option-redskins-waive-sanders/e6689221-9124-4079-8e25-bd27d77bd458/ | access-date=May 9, 2026}}</ref> If he had passed through waivers unclaimed, he would have been able to sign a free-agent contract with any team and play during the season. However, on December 25, five teams (the Indianapolis Colts, Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Diego Chargers and Tennessee Titans) placed waiver bids for him, with the Chargers claiming him by having the highest waiver priority. Since it was too late in the season to be activated from the reserve/retired list, he was unable to play for the Chargers for the rest of the season.<ref>{{cite news |author = Sandomir, Richard |title = Sanders's Comeback Bid Ended By Waivers Claims |url = https://www.nytimes.com/2002/12/25/sports/pro-football-sanders-s-comeback-bid-ended-by-waivers-claims.html |website = The New York Times |date = December 25, 2002 |access-date = December 16, 2019 }}</ref>
=== Baltimore Ravens (2004–2005) === In 2004, Sanders announced his intention to come out of retirement after being convinced by his friend Joe Zorovich, Baltimore Ravens cornerback Corey Fuller, and linebacker Ray Lewis to play. He signed a one-year deal with the Ravens to be a nickelback.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2004-08-31 |title=Willing, able: Deion passes physical, signs deal |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=1871834 |access-date=2024-12-04 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |language=en}}</ref> Sanders chose to wear the number 37, which matched his age at the time, to preemptively let people know that he was well aware of his relative senior status as an NFL player (additionally, his usual number 21 was already being worn by Ravens Pro Bowl cornerback Chris McAlister).<ref>{{Cite web |date=September 7, 2004 |title=Sanders chooses to flaunt his age |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=1876190 |access-date=2026-05-05 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> Against the Buffalo Bills in week 7 of 2004, Sanders scored his ninth career interception return touchdown, moving him into a tie with Ken Houston and Aeneas Williams, and behind Rod Woodson (with 12), for second place all-time in the statistical category.
Sanders played in every game of the 2005 season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Deion Sanders 2005 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandDe00/gamelog/2005/ |access-date=2024-12-04 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> The Ravens failed to qualify for the postseason for the second straight year and he retired in January 2006.<ref name="l856">{{cite web | last=Jones | first=Brent | title=Sanders says he's retiring from NFL | website=Baltimore Sun | date=2006-02-16 | url=https://www.baltimoresun.com/2006/02/16/sanders-says-hes-retiring-from-nfl/ | access-date=2024-12-04}}</ref>
==Coaching career== ===High school=== While continuing to work as an NFL analyst, Sanders became the head coach for the Prime Prep Academy, which he co-founded. The executive director of the school twice tried to fire Sanders, in one instance after witnesses said Sanders grabbed a school official by the collar, causing the official to fall to the floor.<ref name="Powell-2014">{{Cite news |last=Powell |first=Michael |date=2014-08-09 |title=A Star-Powered School Sputters |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/08/10/sports/prime-prep-academy-founded-by-deion-sanders-comes-under-scrutiny.html |access-date=2023-09-20 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> He stayed as the head coach for 2012 and 2013. The school was shut down in 2015 amid a spate of problems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-01-30 |title=Prime Prep Academy, A Troubled Charter School, Shutting Down Today |url=https://www.keranews.org/education/2015-01-30/prime-prep-academy-a-troubled-charter-school-shutting-down-today |access-date=2023-09-20 |website=KERA News |language=en}}</ref><ref name="Dallas News-2016">{{Cite web |last=Mosier |first=Jeff |date=2016-02-02 |title=The spectacular collapse of Deion Sanders' Prime Prep Academy |url=https://www.dallasnews.com/news/2016/02/02/the-spectacular-collapse-of-deion-sanders-prime-prep-academy/ |access-date=2023-09-20 |website=Dallas News |language=en}}</ref>
In 2015, he was hired as the head coach for Triple A Academy, where he was the coach for two seasons.<ref>{{cite web | last=Riddle | first=Greg | title=Deion Sanders-led Triple A Academy to play at Fort Worth Christian on Friday | website=Dallas News | date=2015-09-03 | url=https://www.dallasnews.com/high-school-sports/2015/09/03/deion-sanders-led-triple-a-academy-to-play-at-fort-worth-christian-on-friday/ | access-date=2026-05-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | last=Skiver | first=Kevin | title=Deion Sanders is switching to offense to coach his sons in high school | website=CBS Sports | date=2017-08-17 | url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/deion-sanders-is-switching-to-offense-to-coach-his-sons-in-high-school/ | access-date=2026-05-05}}</ref>
In 2017, he became the offensive coordinator for Trinity Christian High School giving him the opportunity to coach his sons Shilo and Shedeur Sanders, along with his eldest son Deion Jr.<ref>{{Cite web |url = https://texashsfootball.com/deion-sanders-helps-put-trinity-christian-in-prime-time-again-with-another-state-title/ |title = Deion Sanders helps put Trinity Christian in prime time again with another state title | Texas HS Football |first = Adam |last = McAbee |date = December 7, 2019 |website = texashsfootball.com }}</ref>
===Jackson State=== ====2020 season==== On September 21, 2020, Deion Sanders became the 21st head coach of the Jackson State Tigers of the historically black (HBCU) Jackson State University.<ref>{{cite web | title=Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Deion Sanders named 21st Jackson State head football coach | website=NCAA.com | date=2020-09-21 | url=https://www.ncaa.com/news/football/article/2020-09-21/pro-football-hall-fame-inductee-deion-sanders-named-21st-jackson-state-head-football | access-date=2026-05-05}}</ref> The Tigers play in the second level of NCAA football, the Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). In his first season in spring 2021, abbreviated and delayed from its normally intended fall 2020 schedule due to COVID-19 disruptions, he led the Tigers to a 4–3 record, with one win by forfeit.<ref>{{cite web | last=Scarborough | first=Alex | title=Jackson State University's Deion Sanders named SWAC Coach of the Year; quarterback son is Freshman of the Year | website=ESPN.com | date=2021-11-29 | url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32745743/jackson-state-university-deion-sanders-named-swac-coach-year-quarterback-son-freshman-year | access-date=2026-05-05}}</ref>
====2021 season==== In the fall 2021 season, Sanders led the Tigers to the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) title and a program record of 11 wins, also being named the recipient of the fall 2021 Eddie Robinson Award as the season's top FCS head coach.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.ncaa.com/news/football/article/2021-12-14/jackson-state-coach-deion-sanders-wins-2021-fcs-eddie-robinson-award |title = Jackson State coach Deion Sanders wins 2021 FCS Eddie Robinson Award |first = Craig |last = Haley |website = NCAA.com |date = December 14, 2021 |accessdate = December 15, 2021 }}</ref> Jackson State went on to play in the 2021 Celebration Bowl where they were defeated by South Carolina State 31–10. The following season, Jackson State again played in the Celebration Bowl where they were again defeated 41–34 by North Carolina Central, bringing Coach Sanders' overall bowl record to 0–2.<ref name="l707">{{cite web | last=Jackson | first=Wilton | title=Jackson State's Undefeated Season and Deion Sanders Era Ends With a Celebration Bowl Defeat | website=SI.com | date=2022-12-18 | url=https://www.si.com/college/2022/12/18/jackson-state-deion-sanders-era-celebration-bowl-loss | access-date=2024-12-04}}</ref>
====2022 season==== Sanders notably flipped the recruitment of defensive back Travis Hunter who was the number one overall recruit in the 2022 class. Hunter initially committed to Sanders' alma mater Florida State. The move was heralded by recruiting director Steve Wiltfong; he said it was "the biggest signing day moment in the history of college football" as Football Championship Subdivision programs and the HBCUs that compete at such a level of competition are not usual destinations for high level recruits out of high school.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cobb |first=David |date=December 15, 2021 |title=Travis Hunter to Jackson State: In all-time stunner, Deion Sanders steals No. 1 prospect from Florida State |url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/travis-hunter-to-jackson-state-in-all-time-stunner-deion-sanders-steals-no-1-prospect-from-florida-state/ |access-date=December 15, 2021 |website=CBS Sports |language=en}}</ref> Hunter was the first five-star recruit to sign with an FCS program.<ref>{{Cite news |date=December 15, 2021 |title=Collins Hill's Travis Hunter signs with Jackson State |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/collins-hills-travis-hunter-signs-with-jackson-state/PZYC44EVQBH57LEC25QRP7B53U/ |access-date=September 18, 2022 |work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |language=English}}</ref> Not only did Sanders attract high-level recruits for HBCUs, he increased revenue for these once low funded teams and put HBCUs on the map.<ref>{{cite web | last=Bell | first=Jarrett | title=Deion Sanders won big for HBCU football, even without winning title | website=USA TODAY | date=2022-12-18 | url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/columnist/bell/2022/12/17/deion-sanders-hbcu-football-legacy/10919761002/ | access-date=2026-05-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | last=Giannotto | first=Mark | title=Time to take Deion Sanders seriously as Jackson State football coach | website=The Commercial Appeal | date=2021-09-12 | url=https://www.commercialappeal.com/story/sports/columnists/mark-giannotto/2021/09/12/deion-sanders-jackson-state-football-coach-prime-southern-heritage-classic/5720472001/ | access-date=2026-05-05}}</ref> Sanders donated half of his salary to help complete the football facility at Jackson State.<ref>{{cite web | title=Deion Sanders will donate half of salary to Jackson State to complete football facility | website=ESPN.com | date=2022-07-18 | url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/34264209/deion-sanders-donate-half-salary-jackson-state-complete-football-facility | access-date=2026-05-05}}</ref>
===Colorado=== ====2023 season==== On December 3, 2022, Sanders was named the head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes.<ref>{{cite web |website = Bleacher Report |last = Wells |first = Adam |url = https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10057569-deion-sanders-officially-named-colorado-head-coach-after-jackson-states-swac-title |title = Deion Sanders Officially Named Colorado Head Coach After Jackson State's SWAC Title |date = December 3, 2022 |access-date = December 3, 2022 }}</ref> Sanders made extensive use of the transfer portal in replacing nearly the Buffaloes' entire roster, with 46 players leaving in the transfer portal and 50 transferring in.<ref>{{cite web | last=VanHaaren | first=Tom | title=Deion Sanders' Colorado football roster, transfers: Key stats | website=ESPN.com | date=2023-05-05 | url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/37412154/deion-sanders-colorado-football-transfer-portal-overhaul-numbers | access-date=2026-05-05}}</ref> Nine followed him from Jackson State, including sons Shedeur and Shilo, and former five-star recruit Hunter.<ref>{{cite web | last=Keith | first=J.T. | title=Since Deion Sanders left Jackson State, 24 players hit transfer portal | website=The Clarion-Ledger | date=2023-05-10 | url=https://www.clarionledger.com/story/sports/college/jackson-state/2023/05/10/deion-sanders-colorado-leaves-jackson-state-24-players-transfer-portal/70202595007/ | access-date=2026-05-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://colorado.rivals.com/transfer_tracker/football/2023?school_focus=colorado |title=Colorado Transfer Tracker |publisher=rivals.com |access-date=16 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | last=Hummer | first=Chris | title=Deion Sanders, Colorado facing another roster overhaul after losing 61% of 2023 class | website=CBS Sports | date=2024-05-01 | url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/deion-sanders-colorado-facing-another-roster-overhaul-after-losing-61-of-2023-class-to-transfer-portal/ | access-date=2026-05-05}}</ref> After going 1–11 in the previous season, Colorado won their first three games of the 2023 season,<ref>{{cite web |last=Bonagura |first=Kyle |date=September 9, 2023 |title=Buffaloes 'impose our will' in dominant win over Cornhuskers |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/38362845/buffaloes-impose-our-dominant-win-cornhuskers |access-date=14 September 2023 |publisher=ESPN}}</ref> then lost their next two, then recorded their only conference win of the season. Colorado finished the season 4–8 with a 1–8 record in Pac-12 play.<ref name="s506">{{cite web | title=2023 Colorado Buffaloes Schedule and Results | website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com | date=2023-09-02 | url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/colorado/2023-schedule.html | access-date=2024-10-31}}</ref>
====2024 season==== Colorado entered the 2024 season with a projected win total of 5.5 wins. They ultimately finished the regular season 9–3, tied for first in the Big 12 conference, but missing the conference championship game due to tiebreakers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2024 Colorado Buffaloes Stats |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/colorado/2024.html |access-date=2026-05-04 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> Cornerback and wide receiver Travis Hunter won the Heisman trophy for Colorado, with quarterback Shedeur Sanders finishing eighth in Heisman voting.<ref>{{cite web | last=Backus | first=Will | title=Travis Hunter wins 2024 Heisman Trophy: Top moments, highlights from Colorado star's journey to coveted award | website=CBS Sports | date=December 15, 2024 | url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/travis-hunter-wins-2024-heisman-trophy-top-moments-highlights-from-colorado-stars-journey-to-coveted-award/ | access-date=May 4, 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2024 Heisman Trophy Voting |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/heisman-2024.html |access-date=2026-05-04 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> The team lost to BYU in the Alamo Bowl.<ref>{{cite web | last=Dominguez | first=Raul | title=BYU stymies Sanders, Hunter in 36-14 victory over Colorado in Alamo Bowl | website=AP News | date=December 29, 2024 | url=https://apnews.com/article/alamo-bowl-colorado-byu-score-7d59642c848bf42f12f1b93414ff8650 | access-date=May 4, 2026}}</ref> Following the strong season, Colorado retired the jerseys of Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders.<ref>{{cite web | title=Buffs To Retire Travis Hunter's No. 12, Shedeur Sanders' No. 2 Jerseys Saturday | website=University of Colorado Athletics | date=December 10, 2024 | url=https://cubuffs.com/news/2025/4/14/football-buffs-to-retire-travis-hunters-no-12-shedeur-sanders-no-2-jerseys-saturday | access-date=May 4, 2026}}</ref>
====2025 season==== On March 28, 2025, Sanders agreed to a five-year, $54 million contract extension with Colorado.<ref>{{cite web | last=Dinich | first=Heather | title=Prime Deal: Deion Sanders lands $54M extension at Colorado | website=ESPN.com | date=2025-03-28 | url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/44444669/deion-sanders-lands-54m-extension-colorado | access-date=2026-04-26}}</ref> The Buffaloes regressed in the 2025 season to a 3–9 record.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2025 Colorado Buffaloes Stats |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/colorado/2025.html |access-date=2026-05-04 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
==Career statistics== ===Playing career=== ====NFL==== {| class="wikitable mw-collapsible" |- ! colspan="2"| Legend |- | style="background:#0ff; width:3em;"| | NFL Defensive Player of the Year |- | style="background:#afe6ba; width:3em;"| | Won the Super Bowl |- | '''Bold''' | Career high |}
=====Defensive/special team statistics===== {|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |- ! rowspan="2"| Year ! rowspan="2"| Team ! colspan="2"| Games ! colspan="4"| Tackles ! colspan="6"| Interceptions ! colspan="4"| Fumbles ! colspan="5"| Punt returns ! colspan="5"| Kickoff returns |- ! GP !! GS !! Comb !! Solo !! Ast !! Sck !! PD !! Int !! Yds !! Avg !! Lng !! TD !! FF !! FR !! Yds !! TD !! Ret !! Yds !! Avg !! Lng !! TD !! Ret !! Yds !! Avg !! Lng !! TD |- ! 1989 || ATL | 15 || 10 || 39 || — || — || 0.0 || — || 5 || 52 || 10.4 || 22 || 0 || '''2''' || 1 || 0 || 0 || 28 || 307 || 11.0 || 68T || 1 || 35 || 725 || 20.7 || 72 || 0 |- ! 1990 || ATL | 16 || 16 || 50 || — || — || 0.0 || — || 3 || 153 || '''51.0''' || 82T || 2 || 0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 29 || 250 || 8.6 || 79T || 1 || 39 || 851 || 21.8 || 50 || 0 |- ! 1991 || ATL | 15 || 15 || 49 || — || — || '''1.0''' || — || 6 || 119 || 19.8 || 55T || 1 || '''2''' || 1 || 0 || 0 || 21 || 170 || 8.1 || 23 || 0 || 26 || 576 || 22.2 || '''100''' || 1 |- ! 1992 || ATL | 13 || 12 || '''66''' || — || — || 0.0 || — || 3 || 105 || 35.0 || 55 || 0 || '''2''' || 2 || 0 || 0 || 13 || 41 || 3.2 || 14 || 0 || '''40''' || '''1,067''' || '''26.7''' || 99 || '''2''' |- ! 1993 || ATL | 11 || 10 || 34 || — || — || 0.0 || — || '''7''' || 91 || 13.0 || 41 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 2 || 21 || 10.5 || 16 || 0 || 7 || 169 || 24.1 || 31 || 0 |- ! style="background:#0ff;"|1994 || style="background:#afe6ba;"|SF | 14 || 12 || 36|| 34 || 2 || 0.0 || — || 6 || '''303''' || 50.5 || '''93T''' || '''3''' || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — |- ! 1995 || style="background:#afe6ba;"|DAL | 9 || 9 || 26 || 25 || 1 || 0.0 || — || 2 || 34 || 17.0 || 34 || 0 || — || — || — || — || 1 || 54 || '''54.0''' || 54 || 0 || 1 || 15 || 15.0 || 15 || 0 |- ! 1996 || DAL | 16 || 15 || 33 || 31 || 2 || 0.0 || — || 2 || 3 || 1.5 || 2 || 0 || 1 || '''3''' || '''15''' || '''1''' || 1 || 4 || 4.0 || 4 || 0 || — || — || — || — || — |- ! 1997 || DAL | 13 || 12 || 33 || 30 || '''3''' || 0.0 || — || 2 || 81 || 40.5 || 50T || 1 || — || — || — || — || '''33''' || '''407''' || 12.3 || 83 || 1 || 1 || 18 || 18.0 || 18 || 0 |- ! 1998 || DAL | 11 || 11 || 25 || 22 || '''3''' || 0.0 || — || 5 || 153 || 30.6 || 71T || 1 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 24 || 375 || 15.6 || 69 || '''2''' || 1 || 16 || 16.0 || 16 || 0 |- ! 1999 || DAL | 14 || 14 || 42 || '''40''' || 2 || 0.0 || 6 || 3 || 2 || 0.7 || 2 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 30 || 344 || 11.5 || 76 || 1 || 4 || 87 || 21.8 || 31 || 0 |- ! 2000 || WAS | 16 || 15 || 41 || 38 || '''3''' || 0.0 || '''9''' || 4 || 91 || 22.8 || 32 || 0 || 1 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 25 || 185 || 7.4 || 57 || 0 || 1 || −1 || −1.0 || −1 || 0 |- ! 2004 || BAL | 9 || 2 || 8 || 7 || 1 || 0.0 || 5 || 3 || 87 || 29.0 || 48T || 1 || — || — || — || — || 5 || 41 || 8.2 || 23 || 0 || — || — || — || — || — |- ! 2005 || BAL | 16 || 4 || 30 || 27 || '''3''' || 0.0 || 5 || 2 || 57 || 28.5 || 33 || 0 || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — |- ! colspan="2"| Career !! 188 !! 157 !! 512 !! 254 !! 20 !! 1.0 !! 25 !! 53 !! 1,331 !! 25.1 !! 93 !! 9 !! 10 !! 13 !! 15 !! 1 !! 212 !! 2,199 !! 10.4 !! 83 !! 6 !! 155 !! 3,523 !! 22.7 !! 100 !! 3 |}
=====Offensive statistics===== {|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |- ! rowspan="2"| Year ! rowspan="2"| Team ! colspan="2"| Games ! colspan="5"| Receiving ! colspan="5"| Rushing ! colspan="2"| Fumbles |- ! GP !! GS !! Rec !! Yds !! Avg !! Lng !! TD !! Att !! Yds !! Avg !! Lng !! TD !! Fum !! Lost |- ! 1989 || ATL | 15 || 10 || 1 || −8 || −8.0 || −8 || 0 || — || — || — || — || — || 0 || 0 |- ! 1990 || ATL | 16 || 16 || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || 0 || 0 |- ! 1991 || ATL | 15 || 15 || 1 || 17 || 17.0 || 17 || 0 || — || — || — || — || — || 1 || 0 |- ! 1992 || ATL | 13 || 12 || 3 || 45 || 15.0 || 37 || '''1''' || 1 || −4 || −4.0 || −4 || 0 || '''3''' || '''2''' |- ! 1993 || ATL | 11 || 10 || 6 || 106 || '''17.7''' || '''70''' || '''1''' || — || — || — || — || — || 0 || 0 |- ! style="background:#0ff;"|1994 || style="background:#afe6ba;"|SF | 14 || 12 || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || 0 || 0 |- ! 1995 || style="background:#afe6ba;"|DAL | 9 || 9 || 2 || 25 || 12.5 || 19 || 0 || 2 || '''9''' || '''4.5''' || '''8''' || 0 || 0 || 0 |- ! 1996 || DAL | 16 || 15 || '''36''' || '''475''' || 13.2 || 41 || '''1''' || '''3''' || 2 || 0.7 || 3 || 1 || 2 || '''2''' |- ! 1997 || DAL | 13 || 12 || — || — || — || — || — || 1 || −11 || −11.0 || −11 || 0 || 1 || 0 |- ! 1998 || DAL | 11 || 11 || 7 || 100 || 14.3 || 55 || 0 || — || — || — || — || — || 1 || 0 |- ! 1999 || DAL | 14 || 14 || 4 || 24 || 6.0 || 9 || 0 || — || — || — || — || — || 1 || 0 |- ! 2000 || WAS | 16 || 15 || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || — || '''3''' || 1 |- ! 2004 || BAL | 9 || 2 || — || — || — || — || — || 1 || −10 || −10.0 || −10 || 0 || 0 || 0 |- ! 2005 || BAL | 16 || 4 || — || — || — || — || — || 1 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 |- ! colspan="2"| Career !! 188 !! 157 !! 60 !! 784 !! 13.1 !! 70 !! 3 !! 9 !! −14 !! −1.6 !! 8 !! 1 !! 13 !! 5 |}
====College==== {| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;" ! rowspan="2" | Year ! rowspan="2" |School ! colspan="2" |Games ! colspan="3" | Tackles ! colspan="4" | Interceptions |- ! G ! GS ! Solo ! Ast ! Tot ! Int ! PD ! FF ! FR |- ! 1985 ! Florida State | 11 | 4 | 22 | 20 | 42 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 0 |- ! 1986 ! Florida State | 12 | 11 | 34 | 27 | 61 | 4 | 8 | 2 | 0 |- ! 1987 ! Florida State | 12 | 12 | 29 | 16 | 46 | 4 | 9 | 1 | 0 |- ! 1988 ! Florida State | 10 | 10 | 25 | 12 | 37 | 5 | 6 | 1 | 0 |}
===Head coaching record=== ====College==== {{CFB Yearly Record Start | type = coach | team = | conf = | bowl = | poll = both | poll1 = STATS/AP | poll2 = Coaches }} {{CFB Yearly Record Subhead | name = Jackson State Tigers | conf = Southwestern Athletic Conference | startyear = 2020 | endyear = 2022 }} {{CFB Yearly Record Entry | championship = | year = 2020–21 | name = Jackson State | overall = 4–3 | conference = 3–2 | confstanding = T–2nd {{small|(East)}} | bowlname = | bowloutcome = | ranking = | ranking2 = }} {{CFB Yearly Record Entry | championship = conference | year = 2021 | name = Jackson State | overall = 11–2{{efn|Sanders missed three conference games during the 2021 season while recovering from foot surgery, all of which Jackson State won. Gary Harrell acted as interim head coach in his absence. Jackson State credits the entire season to Sanders.<ref>{{cite news |last = Arend |first = Alek |title = Look: Deion Sanders Is Back On The Sideline For Jackson State's Game |url = https://thespun.com/college-football/look-deion-sanders-is-back-on-the-sideline-for-jackson-states-game |newspaper = The Spun by Sports Illustrated |date = November 20, 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author = <!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |title = NCAA Statistics |url = https://stats.ncaa.org/people/2423508 |publisher = National Collegiate Athletic Association |access-date = December 27, 2021 }}</ref>}} | conference = 8–0 | confstanding = 1st {{small|(East)}} | bowlname = Celebration | bowloutcome = L | ranking = 22 | ranking2 = 19 }} {{CFB Yearly Record Entry | championship = conference | year = 2022 | name = Jackson State | overall = 12–1 | conference = 8–0 | confstanding = 1st {{small|(East)}} | bowlname = Celebration | bowloutcome = L | ranking = 16 | ranking2 = 11 }} {{CFB Yearly Record Subtotal | name = Jackson State | overall = 27–6 | confrecord = 19–2 }} {{CFB Yearly Record Subhead | name = Colorado Buffaloes | conf = Pac-12 Conference | startyear = 2023 | endyear = single }} {{CFB Yearly Record Entry | championship = | year = 2023 | name = Colorado | overall = 4–8 | conference = 1–8 | confstanding = 12th | bowlname = | bowloutcome = | ranking = | ranking2 = }} {{CFB Yearly Record Subhead | name = Colorado Buffaloes | conf = Big 12 Conference | startyear = 2024 | endyear = present }} {{CFB Yearly Record Entry | championship = | year = 2024 | name = Colorado | overall = 9–4 | conference = 7–2 | confstanding = T–1st | bowlname = Alamo | bowloutcome = L | ranking = 25 | ranking2 = 25 }} {{CFB Yearly Record Entry | championship = | year = 2025 | name = Colorado | overall = 3–9 | conference = 1–8 | confstanding = 15th | bowlname = | bowloutcome = | ranking = | ranking2 = }} {{CFB Yearly Record Subtotal | name = Colorado | overall = 16–21 | confrecord = 9–18 }} {{CFB Yearly Record End | overall = 43–27 | bowls = no | poll = no | polltype = }}
====High school==== {{CFB Yearly Record Start | type = coach | team = | conf = | bowl = | poll = no }} {{CFB Yearly Record Subhead | name = Prime Prep Cardinals | conf = | startyear = 2012 | endyear = 2013 }} {{CFB Yearly Record Entry | championship = | year = 2012 | name = Prime Prep | overall = 1–5 | conference = 1–3 | confstanding = 3rd | bowlname = | bowloutcome = | bcsbowl = | ranking = no | ranking2 = no }} {{CFB Yearly Record Entry | championship = conference | year = 2013 | name = Prime Prep | overall = 7–2 | conference = 1–0 | confstanding = 1st | bowlname = | bowloutcome = | bcsbowl = | ranking = no | ranking2 = no }} {{CFB Yearly Record Subtotal | name = Prime Prep | overall = 8–7 | confrecord = 2–3 }} {{CFB Yearly Record Subhead | name = Triple A Academy Stallions | conf = | startyear = 2015 | endyear = 2016 }} {{CFB Yearly Record Entry | championship = | year = 2015 | name = Triple A Academy | overall = 4–8 | conference = 1–1 | confstanding = 3rd | bowlname = | bowloutcome = | bcsbowl = | ranking = no | ranking2 = no }} {{CFB Yearly Record Entry | championship = | year = 2016 | name = Triple A Academy | overall = 5–6 | conference = 5–1 | confstanding = 2nd | bowlname = | bowloutcome = | bcsbowl = | ranking = no | ranking2 = no }} {{CFB Yearly Record Subtotal | name = Triple A Academy | overall = 9–14 | confrecord = 6–2 }} {{CFB Yearly Record End | overall = 17–21 | bowls = no | poll = no | polltype = }}
== Legacy and honors == During his 14-year NFL career, Sanders was a perennial All-Pro and considered by many as one of, if not the strongest pass defenders ever to play the game.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Haaf |first=Landon |date=2023-01-16 |title=New to CU Buffs football? Here's just how good Deion Sanders was in his playing career |url=https://www.denver7.com/sports/new-to-cu-buffs-football-heres-just-how-good-deion-sanders-was-in-his-playing-career |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Denver 7 Colorado News (KMGH) |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bruner |first=Evan |date=2024-05-05 |title=Ranking the Top 10 Cornerbacks in NFL History |url=https://www.givemesport.com/best-cornerbacks-nfl-history/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=GiveMeSport |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mann |first=Max |date=April 15, 2008 |title=Deion Sanders: Best Corner Ever? What About Best Player Ever? |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/17936-deion-sanders-best-corner-ever-what-about-best-player-ever |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Schultz |first=Adam |date=12 December 2022 |title=Where does Deion Sanders rank among the greatest NFL cornerback of all-time? |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-where-deion-sanders-rank-among-greatest-nfl-cornerback-all-time |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=sportskeeda.com}}</ref>
Sanders also occasionally lined up with the team's offense. During the 1996 season, Sanders skipped the baseball season, concentrating on football, and attended the first NFL training camp of his career to better familiarize himself with the nuances of the wide receiver position. He became only the second two-way starter (after the Cardinals' Roy Green) in the NFL since Chuck Bednarik.
Sanders is the only man to play in both a Super Bowl and a World Series,<ref name="ESPN" /> to hit an MLB home run and score an NFL touchdown in the same week, and to have both a reception and an interception in the Super Bowl. He is one of seven players to win back-to-back Super Bowls with different teams. He is (along with fellow two-way player and Pro Football Hall of Famer "Bullet" Bill Dudley) also one of two players to score an NFL touchdown six different ways (interception return, punt return, kickoff return, receiving, rushing, and fumble recovery).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brandt |first=Gil |author-link=Gil Brandt |date=August 2, 2011 |title=Ten things you didn't know about Deion Sanders |url=http://www.nfl.com/halloffame/story/09000d5d8212ee03/article/ten-things-you-didnt-know-about-deion-sanders |access-date=January 28, 2017 |website=NFL |publisher=National Football League}}</ref>
During his career, Sanders intercepted 53 passes for 1,331 yards (a 25.1 yards per return average), recovered four fumbles for 15 yards, returned 155 kickoffs for 3,523 yards, gained 2,199 yards on 212 punt returns, and caught 60 passes for 784 yards. Sanders amassed 7,838 all-purpose yards and scored 22 touchdowns, nine interception returns, six punt returns, three kick returns, three receiving, and one fumble recovery. His 19 defensive and return touchdowns was an NFL record (now held by Devin Hester with 20 return touchdowns). In the postseason Sanders added five more interceptions, as well as three receptions for 95 yards, four carries for 39 yards, and two touchdowns (one rushing and one receiving). He was selected to eight Pro Bowls and won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award in 1994.
* ''College Football News'' named Sanders No. 8 in its list of 100 Greatest College Football Players of All-Time. * ''The Sporting News'' named Sanders No. 37 in their Top 100 Football Players of the Century released in 1999. * ESPN named Sanders No. 74 in its list of the 100 Great Athletes of the Century released in 1999. * NFL.com named Sanders No. 34 on NFL's Top 100 list released in late 2010<ref name="q730">{{cite web | last=Farrar | first=Doug | title=Deion Sanders is unhappy about his ranking in 'NFL's Top 100' | website=Yahoo! Sports | date=2010-10-15 | url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-doug-farrar/deion-sanders-unhappy-ranking-nfls-top-100--nfl.html | access-date=2024-09-02}}</ref> * NFL Network named "Deion Sanders and anyone" in their Top 10 greatest cornerback tandems in NFL history: "...Deion Sanders started opposite 13 other cornerbacks, and no matter who started on the other side the defense was better with No. 21 baiting QBs." * On November 11, 2010, Sanders was inducted into the Atlanta Falcons' Ring of Honor. * On May 17, 2011, Sanders was announced as a College Football Hall of Fame inductee. * On August 6, 2011, Sanders was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame<ref>{{cite web |title = Deion Sanders HOF Speech |url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmZc1zb32n4 |archive-url = https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/wmZc1zb32n4 |archive-date = December 22, 2021 |url-status = live |work = Video Entry | date=August 6, 2011 |access-date = October 19, 2011 }}{{cbignore}}</ref> in his first year of eligibility. * In August 2025, Sanders was named to the AP All-Time All-America college football team<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-15 |title=Deion Sanders, Tim Tebow headline AP All-Time All-America team, honoring 100 years of college football greats |url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/deion-sanders-tim-tebow-headline-ap-all-time-all-america-team-honoring-100-years-of-college-football-greats/ |access-date=2025-08-21 |website=CBSSports.com |language=en}}</ref>
On February 6, 2011, at Super Bowl XLV in Arlington, Texas, Sanders performed the pregame coin toss.<ref name="w708">{{cite web | last=Kirk | first=Jason | title=2011 Super Bowl Coin Flip: Deion Sanders And Other Hall Of Fame Inductees Included | website=SB Nation Atlanta | date=2011-02-06 | url=https://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-falcons/2011/2/6/1978827/2011-super-bowl-coin-flip-deion-sanders-hall-of-fame-inductees | access-date=2024-09-02}}</ref>
Sanders did not attend classes or take final exams during the fall semester (1988) of his senior year at Florida State, yet played in the Sugar Bowl against Auburn. This caused the state legislature to create the "Deion Sanders rule", whereby a football athlete at any state university could not play in a bowl game if he failed to successfully complete the previous semester.<ref>{{cite web |last1 = Kallestad |first1 = Brent |title = Deion Changes the Rules Again : Pro football: This time, however, it's for better education of athletes with new standards in Florida. |url = https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-06-03-sp-8983-story.html |website = Los Angeles Times |date = June 3, 1995 |access-date = January 29, 2017 }}</ref>
In {{nfly|1995}}, he signed with the Dallas Cowboys for a minimum yearly base salary and a nearly $13 million signing bonus in an attempt to circumvent the NFL's salary cap. This caused the NFL to institute its own "Deion Sanders rule", whereby a prorated portion of a player's signing bonus counted against the salary cap.<ref name="x431">{{cite web | last=Drummond | first=K.D. | title=Top 10 NFL rules named after Cowboys players | website=Cowboys Wire|publisher=USA Today | date=2017-03-23 | url=https://cowboyswire.usatoday.com/2017/03/23/dallas-cowboys-nfl-rules-named-after-brice-butler-emmitt-smith-michael-irvin-dez-bryant-tony-romo-deion-sanders-marion-barber-mel-renfro/ | access-date=2024-09-02}}</ref>
Sanders was named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame's 1st Team All-1990s Team.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pro Football Hall of Fame All-Decade Teams - 1990s |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/ |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
Sanders was named to the NFL 100 All Time Team.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL 100 All Time Team |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-100-all-time-team.htm |access-date=2026-05-09 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
== Media appearances and pop culture fame == Sanders became known for sporting a "do-rag" or bandana and for high-stepping into the end zone followed by his touchdown dance celebrations. At the end of his Hall of Fame speech, he put a bandana on his bust.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-hall-of-fame/09000d5d82149a53/2011-HOF-Deion-Sanders |title = NFL Videos: 2011 HOF: Deion Sanders |work = National Football League |date = August 6, 2011 |access-date = August 16, 2012 }}</ref>
His "Prime Time" nickname was given to him by a friend and high-school teammate, Florida Gators defensive back Richard Fain. The two played pickup basketball games together during the prime time television hour, and Sanders' athletic display during those games earned him the nickname.
Sanders, wearing custom-made showy suits and flashy jewelry, capitalized on his image. On December 26, 1994, Sanders released ''Prime Time'', a rap album on MC Hammer's Bust It Records that featured the singles "Must Be the Money" and "Prime Time Keeps on Tickin'". The album and singles didn't chart in the Top 40. Following his first Super Bowl victory with the San Francisco 49ers, Sanders hosted ''Saturday Night Live'', broadcast on February 18, 1995. Sanders performed a medley of songs from ''Prime Time'', including "Must Be the Money" and "Heidi Heidi Hey".
As Hammer's friend, Sanders appeared in the "2 Legit 2 Quit" music video, and his alter-ego "Prime Time" showed up in Hammer's "Pumps and a Bump" music video. Hammer, being a big sports fan, launched a new enterprise called Roll Wit It Entertainment & Sports Management which boasted such clients as Evander Holyfield, Deion Sanders and Reggie Brooks.<ref>{{cite magazine |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=v9MDAAAAMBAJ&q=Louis+Burrell+mc+hammer+brother&pg=PA118 |title = Show Biz Brothers |magazine = Ebony |date = October 1990 |access-date = August 16, 2012 }}</ref> In 1995, Hammer released "Straight to My Feet" with Sanders, from the ''Street Fighter'' soundtrack (released in December 1994). The song charted No. 57 in the UK.
In January 1995, Sanders became the spokesman for the Sega Sports line of video games.<ref>{{cite magazine |title = CES ProNews Flashes! |magazine = GamePro |issue = 68 |publisher = IDG |date = March 1995 |page = 156 }}</ref> Sanders has also appeared in television commercials for such companies as Nike, Pepsi, Burger King, Pizza Hut and American Express. These included a Road Runner Pepsi ad, with Sanders as the Road Runner with Wile E. Coyote targeting him, and a Pizza Hut commercial in which he appeared with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. He also makes a cameo as himself in the film ''Celtic Pride''.
After retiring from the NFL in 2001, Sanders worked as a pregame commentator for CBS' ''The NFL Today'' until 2004, when contract negotiations failed. Sanders turned down a 30% salary increase demanding to be paid $2.5 million, the highest of any NFL TV analyst. He was replaced by Shannon Sharpe. During Sanders' run, he participated in several sketches. The first was "Primetime and 21st", a mock street corner where Sanders (not yet a regular panelist) would give his opinions. Another one was his "Sanders Claus" persona, one of numerous sketches that involved young kids in football jerseys, representing NFL players, receiving a sarcastic gift from Sanders. Sanders actually debuted as "Sanders Claus" in a set of Nike commercials.<ref>{{Cite web |url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nicsqrv_i0M |title = Deion Sanders Denis Leary Sanderclaus Commercial |date = June 17, 2011 |via = www.youtube.com }}</ref>
[[File:Deion Sanders 2008.jpg|thumb|left|Sanders working as an analyst for NFL Network, 2008]]
Sanders frequently made guest appearances on ESPN, especially on the ESPN Radio Dallas affiliate, and briefly hosted a show called ''The New American Sportsman''. He also hosted the 2002 Miss USA pageant.
Sanders co-hosted the 2004 GMA Dove Awards broadcast, taped in late April 2004, and slated for air on UPN in May 2004. When negotiations with fellow Viacom property ''The NFL Today'' failed two weeks before the broadcast, and he signed a deal with ESPN, UPN promptly canceled the broadcast, and the show aired on the i Network in December 2004 (both UPN and CBS are owned by CBS Corporation).
Sanders worked at NFL Network as an analyst on a number of the network's shows. Prior to the Sunday night game, Sanders, alongside host Rich Eisen and Steve Mariucci, broke down all the action from the afternoon games on ''NFL GameDay''. At the conclusion of all the action on Sunday, Sanders, Mariucci, Michael Irvin and host Fran Charles recapped the day's action with highlights, analysis and postgame interviews. For the 2010 season, Sanders joined Eisen, Mariucci and Marshall Faulk on the road for ''Thursday Night Kickoff presented by Lexus'', NFL Network's two-hour pregame show leading into ''Thursday Night Football''. The group broadcast live from the stadium two hours prior to all eight live ''Thursday Night Football'' games and returned for the Sprint halftime show and Kay Jewelers postgame show. Sanders also had a segment called "Let's Go Primetime" on NFL Network.
In 2008, Sanders and his wife starred in the reality show ''Deion & Pilar: Prime Time Love'', centering on them and their five children living in the small town of Prosper, Texas. That same year, he appeared with his family on ''Celebrity Family Feud'' in the July 22, 2008, episode, competing against Caitlyn and Kris Jenner, Kim, Kourtney and Khloé Kardashian.
Sanders appeared as himself in the fourth season of ''The League'', playing a prospective buyer of Andre's apartment.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2480280 |title = "The League" 12.12.12 (TV Episode 2012) |work = IMDb |access-date = February 5, 2015 }}</ref>
In 2014, Sanders was featured in an episode of ''Running Wild with Bear Grylls'', where he and Grylls hiked in the desert of southern Utah for two days, rappelling down canyon walls and later climbing up a mesa.<ref name=RWBG>{{cite web |title = Running Wild with Bear Grylis – Deion Sanders |url = http://www.nbc.com/running-wild-with-bear-grylls/episode-guide/season-running-wild-with-bear-grylls/deion-sanders/106/1868761 |publisher = NBC |access-date = July 13, 2015 }}</ref>
Sanders served as an alumni captain for Team Sanders in the 2014 Pro Bowl.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 31, 2013 |title=2014 Pro Bowl features new format for NFL all-star game |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/2014-pro-bowl-features-new-format-for-nfl-all-star-game-0ap1000000224052 |access-date=September 15, 2013 |website=National Football League}}</ref> He also re-joined CBS Sports as a studio analyst for Thursday games only.
In 2015, he competed against singer Justin Bieber in an episode of Spike's ''Lip Sync Battle'' and won with performances of "Play That Funky Music" by Wild Cherry and "Like a Virgin" by Madonna.
Sanders and his girlfriend Tracey Edmonds were featured together on an episode of ''Tiny House Nation'' that first aired on January 21, 2017.<ref name="Deion Sanders Goes Tiny">{{cite web |title = Deion Sanders Goes Tiny |url = http://www.fyi.tv/shows/tiny-house-nation/season-4/episode-3/deion-sanders-goes-tiny |website = FYI |publisher = A & E Television Networks |access-date = January 22, 2017 |archive-date = February 2, 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170202021447/http://www.fyi.tv/shows/tiny-house-nation/season-4/episode-3/deion-sanders-goes-tiny |url-status = dead }}</ref>
In 2018, Sanders appeared in disguise on ''Undercover Boss''; he met with youth coaches and the less fortunate; it aired on CBS.<ref>{{Cite web |url = https://www.cbsnews.com/dfw/news/deion-sanders-undercover-boss |title = Deion Sanders Stars On Undercover Boss |website = CBS News |date = June 2018 |access-date = June 29, 2022 }}</ref>
Sanders is featured in the docuseries ''Coach Prime'', which follows his career as a college football head coach.<ref>{{cite news |last1 = Li |first1 = Joyce |title = Watch the Teaser Clip for Amazon Prime's New College Football Docuseries on Coach Deion Sanders |url = https://hypebeast.com/2022/10/amazon-prime-coach-prime-deion-sanders-college-football-hbcu-jackson-state-tigers-docuseries-teaser-clip |access-date = December 21, 2022 |publisher = Hypebeast |date = October 12, 2022 }}</ref>
Sanders appeared on ''Hell's Kitchen'' when he and several Stand Together contributors had their dinner cooked by the Blue Team during charity night.{{Citation needed|date=May 2025}}
=== Leon Sandcastle === '''Leon Sandcastle''' is a fictional character, depicted as a disguise for Sanders. The Sandcastle character was created for an NFL Network commercial. Sandcastle first appeared in a Super Bowl commercial in 2013.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thorman |first=Joel |date=February 3, 2013 |title=Super Bowl commercials 2013: Deion Sanders is Leon Sandcastle, the Chiefs No. 1 pick |url=http://www.arrowheadpride.com/2013/2/3/3949174/super-bowl-commercials-2013-leon-sandcastle-deion-sanders-chiefs-nfl-draft |access-date=February 26, 2013 |website=Arrowhead Pride |publisher=SB Nation}}</ref> The commercial depicted Sanders suggesting he could still play at a level higher than the rookies in the 2013 NFL draft and deciding to make a comeback. He dons an afro, assumes the impromptu alias "Leon Sandcastle" and enters the draft, going through the full NFL Scouting Combine. For action shots, Ball State cornerback Andre Dawson served as the stunt double.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Foss |first=Mike |date=February 7, 2013 |title=The true identity of Leon Sandcastle (NOT Deion Sanders) |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/gameon/2013/02/05/deion-sanders-leon-sandcastle-andre-dawson-super-bowl-xlvii/1894275/ |access-date=February 26, 2013 |newspaper=USA Today}}</ref> The commercial features Sandcastle being drafted 1st overall in the draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. A voiceover then instructs viewers to watch NFL Network for offseason and draft coverage at the end noting in a deadpan voice that "the next rookie sensation probably won't be Leon Sandcastle."<ref>{{Cite web |date=February 3, 2013 |title=Super Bowl ad touts the Chiefs' No. 1 pick, 'Leon Sandcastle' |url=https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article314112.html |access-date=2023-09-11 |newspaper=Kansas City Star}}</ref>
Despite not being an actual prospect for the 2013 NFL draft, several combine videos have been created. The most prominent of these videos is Sandcastle's "4.2 40 yard dash".<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.nfl.com/videos/auto/0ap2000000144042/Leon-Sandcastle-runs-the-40-yard-dash |title = Leon Sandcastle runs the 40-yard dash |website = National Football League |date = February 25, 2013 |accessdate = February 26, 2013 }}</ref> The NFL also created a "Combine Profile" for Sandcastle, as they do with actual prospects.<ref name=CombineProfile>{{cite web |url = http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/leon-sandcastle |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170308223120/http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/leon-sandcastle |url-status = dead |archive-date = 2017-03-08 |title = CB21 Leon Sandcastle |website = National Football League |accessdate = February 26, 2013 }}</ref> In Rich Eisen's 2013 annual 'Run Rich Run' event, Sandcastle appeared giving tips to Eisen.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Daniels |first=Tim |date=February 26, 2013 |title=NFL Combine 2013 Video: Watch Leon Sandcastle Race Rich Eisen in 40-Yard Dash |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1545171-nfl-combine-2013-video-watch-leon-sandcastle-race-rich-eisen-in-40-yard-dash |access-date=February 26, 2013 |website=Bleacher Report}}</ref> Sandcastle's combine profile reveals that Sandcastle attended Primetime University.<ref name=CombineProfile/><ref>{{Cite web |last=Padaon |first=Ernie |date=February 22, 2013 |title=Leon Sandcastle Profile On NFL.Com |url=http://boltbeat.com/2013/02/22/leon-sandcastle-profile-on-nfl-com/ |access-date=February 26, 2013 |website=Bolt Beat |publisher=Sports Illustrated |archive-date=February 26, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130226094824/http://boltbeat.com/2013/02/22/leon-sandcastle-profile-on-nfl-com/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> The commercial had a positive social media response as "Leon Sandcastle" was trending on Twitter worldwide, shortly after the commercial's airing.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Antoniello |first=Gina |date=February 5, 2013 |title=Super Bowl Ads Featuring Professional Athletes: A Win-Win for Brands |url=http://www.ibtimes.com/sportsnet/super-bowl-ads-featuring-professional-athletes-win-win-brands-1061270 |access-date=February 26, 2013 |newspaper=International Business Times |archive-date=February 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222172300/http://www.ibtimes.com/sportsnet/super-bowl-ads-featuring-professional-athletes-win-win-brands-1061270 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Sandcastle was also put into ''Madden NFL 13'' as a card in the 'Ultimate Team' game mode.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Light |first=David |date=February 24, 2013 |title=Leon Sandcastle Sneaks His Way Into Madden 13 |url=http://gomadden.com/content/madden/leon-sandcastle-madden-13-ultimate-team/ |access-date=February 26, 2013 |website=Go Madden}}</ref> For April Fools' Day, 2013, NFL.com reported that Sandcastle would be the Chiefs' first overall selection.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.nfl.com/news/leon-sandcastle-will-be-drafted-no-1-overall-by-chiefs-0ap1000000156318 |title = Leon Sandcastle will be drafted No. 1 overall by Chiefs |work = National Football League |date = April 1, 2013 |access-date = April 1, 2013 }}</ref> The character developed marketing value and continued to appear in headlines, such as a fake endorsement deal with Under Armour<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.adweek.com/adfreak/leon-sandcastle-signs-fake-funny-endorsement-deal-under-armour-148515 |publisher = Ad Week |title = Leon Sandcastle Signs Fake but Funny Endorsement Deal With Under Armour |first = Tim |last = Nudd |accessdate = April 27, 2013 |date = April 11, 2013 }}</ref> and continued to make other appearance at NFL events.<ref>{{cite magazine |url = https://www.gq.com/style/blogs/the-gq-eye/2013/04/style-report-the-nfl-drafts-best-look-was-on-a-300-pound-tackle.html |magazine = GQ |accessdate = April 27, 2013 |first = Dennis |last = Tang |title = Style Report: The NFL Draft's Best Look...on a 300-Pound Lineman? |date = April 26, 2013 |archive-date = April 29, 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130429091741/http://www.gq.com/style/blogs/the-gq-eye/2013/04/style-report-the-nfl-drafts-best-look-was-on-a-300-pound-tackle.html |url-status = dead }}</ref> Sandcastle also had football trading cards produced and inserted into products by Topps and Panini America.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.cardboardconnection.com/leon-sandcastle-cards |publisher = Cardboard Connection |title = Primetime Guide to Collecting Leon Sandcastle Cards |first = Ryan |last = Cracknell |accessdate = December 6, 2016 |date = December 6, 2016 }}</ref>
==Other business and entertainment ventures== In addition to his sports career, Sanders also had a career in music as a rapper. He released his debut album in 1994, ''Prime Time'', through Hammer's Bust It Records label via Capitol Records.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kiger |first=Fred W. |date=November 15, 2004 |title=Prime Time |url=http://www.espn.com/classic/s/add_Sanders_Deion.html |access-date=2023-09-11 |website=ESPN Classic}}</ref> In 1995, Hammer released "Straight to My Feet" with Sanders, from the ''Street Fighter'' soundtrack (released in December 1994). The song charted No. 57 in the UK.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.officialcharts.com/search/singles/straight-to-my-feet/|title=straight to my feet | full Official Chart History | Official Charts Company|website=www.officialcharts.com}}</ref>
Sanders moved on to other ventures after his retirement. In 2003, Sanders took interest in Devin Hester, a return specialist from Miami. Sanders mentored Hester; he counselled and advised him during his collegiate career. The Chicago Bears drafted Hester in the second round of the 2006 NFL draft. Since then, Hester has broken the record for the most total returns for touchdowns in NFL history with 14 punt returns, 5 kick returns, and 1 missed field goal return (20). Hester has cited Sanders as one of his major inspirations and idols, and thanked him for his training and advice. Hester, also known as "Anytime", on occasion performed Sanders' signature touchdown dance and high-steps in homage to his mentor.<ref name="Hester_Pilot">{{cite news |url = https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/cs-060917haugh,1,5287462.column?coll=chi-sportstop-hed |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230407041046/https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/cs-060917haugh,1,5287462.column?coll=chi-sportstop-hed |url-status = dead |archive-date = April 7, 2023 |title = Pilot episode is prime-time |work = Chicago Tribune }}</ref><ref name="Hester_Rams">{{cite web |url = http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2796 |title = Hester wins second straight player of week award |access-date = December 18, 2006 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070926220718/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2796 |archive-date = September 26, 2007 |url-status = dead }}</ref><ref name="Hester_Q/A">{{cite news |last=Strohl |first=Rahula |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-0612040196dec04,1,2133943.story?coll=chi-sportsbears-hed |title = Q&A;: Devin Hester |date=December 4, 2006 |newspaper=Chicago Tribune |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081204074836/http://archives.chicagotribune.com/2006/dec/04/news/chi-0612040196dec04 |archive-date=December 4, 2008 |url-status=dead |access-date=February 25, 2026}}</ref>
Sanders also tried to adopt a high school running back, Noel Devine, who was one of the top recruits in 2007. Sanders was advised against doing this but responded, "He doesn't have parents; they died. God put this young man in my heart. This is not about sports. This is about a kid's life." He now mentors Devine, and was a factor in Devine's extended wait to sign a letter-of-intent to West Virginia University. Devine eventually signed to play football for the Mountaineers.
Sanders has also been a mentor to Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Michael Crabtree, as well as former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver, Dez Bryant.<ref name="b662">{{cite web | last=MacMahon | first=Tim | title=Bryant still considers Deion his mentor | website=ESPN.com | date=2010-02-26 | url=https://www.espn.com/blog/dallas-cowboys/post/_/id/4666739/bryant-still-considers-deion-his-mentor | access-date=2024-10-31}}</ref>
In January 2004, Sanders was hired as an assistant coach to the Dallas Fury, a women's professional basketball team in the National Women's Basketball League, even though Sanders had never played organized basketball either in college or the professional level.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Flatter |first=Ron |date=August 30, 2000 |title=Where Sanders goes, teams win |url=https://www.espn.com/sportscentury/features/00016459.html |access-date=October 18, 2010 |website=ESPN.com}}</ref>
On September 2, 2005, in response to Hurricane Katrina, Sanders challenged all professional athletes in the four major sports to donate $1,000 each to relief efforts, hoping to raise between $1.5 and $3 million. Sanders said "Through unity, we can touch thousands... I have friends and relatives that feel this pain. Help in any way you can."<ref>{{Cite web |date=September 2, 2005 |title=Deion challenges all pros to donate $1K to Katrina relief |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/news/story?id=2150006 |access-date=February 18, 2022 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |language=en}}</ref> In April 2006, Sanders became an owner of the Austin Wranglers, an Arena Football League team.<ref>{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20090117025150/http://www.arenafootball.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=3500&ATCLID=271301&SPID=1547 Prime Time joins Wranglers – ArenaFootball.com — The Official Web site of the Arena Football League AFL]}}</ref>
Sanders has occasionally served as a celebrity spokesperson, such as representing Monitronics, a security system firm, at an industry conference in the spring of 2010.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.thestreet.com/story/10710186/monitronics-welcomes-nfl-stars-at-isc-west.html |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120615172200/http://www.thestreet.com/story/10710186/monitronics-welcomes-nfl-stars-at-isc-west.html |url-status = dead |archive-date = June 15, 2012 |author = The Street |title = Monitronics Welcomes NFL Stars At ISC West }}</ref>
In 2020, Sanders became an OOFOS brand ambassador.<ref name="auto6">{{Cite web|url=https://sgbonline.com/oofos-partners-with-pro-football-hall-of-famer-deion-sanders/|title=Oofos Partners With Pro Football Hall Of Famer Deion Sander|website=SGB Media|date=June 15, 2020|accessdate=July 19, 2025}}</ref> Sanders credited his OOFOS shoes with helping with the lingering pain he felt from his years as a pro athlete.<ref name="auto6"/>
On April 10, 2024, Sanders entered into an endorsement deal with Boost Mobile.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-05-02 |title=Deion Sanders inks endorsement with Boost Mobile |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2024/04/10/deion-sanders-boost-mobile-endorsement-deal/ |access-date=2025-05-02 |website=Sports Business Journal |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Frankel |first=Daniel |date=2024-04-10 |title=Prime Dime: Dish Network Hires Deion Sanders to Hawk Boost Mobile |url=https://www.nexttv.com/news/prime-dime-dish-network-hires-deion-sanders-hawk-boost-mobile |access-date=2024-04-10 |website=NextTV |language=en}}</ref>
==Discography== {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;" |- ! rowspan="2"| Year ! rowspan="2"| Album ! colspan="3"| Chart positions |- style="font-size:smaller;" ! style="width:45px;"| US Hip-Hop ! style="width:45px;"| US Heatseekers |- | 1994 | style="text-align:left;"| ''Prime Time'' | 70 | 14 |- | 2005 | style="text-align:left;"| ''The Encore Remix'' | — | — |- | style="text-align:center;" colspan="6"| {{small|"—" denotes the album failed to chart or not released}} |}
==Personal life== thumb|Sanders in 2008 Sanders has been married twice: He was married to Carolyn Chambers (1989–1998), with whom he had two children, Deiondra Sanders and Deion Sanders Jr. His second marriage was with Pilar Biggers-Sanders (1999–2015), with whom he has three children, Shilo, Shedeur, and Shelomi Sanders.<ref>{{cite web |last=Piccotti |first=Tyler |url=https://www.biography.com/athlete/deion-sanders |title=Deion Sanders |date=December 4, 2023 |website=Biography.com |access-date=July 13, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |last=Eidell |first=Lynsey |url=https://people.com/parents/all-about-deion-sanders-kids/ |title=Deion Sanders' 5 Kids: All About His Sons and Daughters |date=April 17, 2024 |magazine=People |access-date=July 13, 2024}}</ref> Sanders coached his sons Shilo and Shedeur during their college careers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bezjak |first=Lou |date=December 14, 2020 |title=Shilo Sanders enters transfer portal, leaving South Carolina |url=https://www.thestate.com/sports/college/university-of-south-carolina/usc-football/article247666830.html |access-date=December 15, 2020 |website=The State}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.ncaa.com/news/football/article/2021-12-13/jackson-state-qb-shedeur-sanders-wins-2021-fcs-jerry-rice-award |title = Jackson State QB Shedeur Sanders wins 2021 FCS Jerry Rice Award |first = Craig |last = Haley |publisher = NCAA.com |date = December 13, 2021 |accessdate = December 15, 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Jackson |first=Wilton |date=December 21, 2022 |title=Shedeur Sanders Announces Transfer Decision |url=https://www.si.com/college/2022/12/21/shedeur-sanders-reveals-he-will-follow-father-deion-sanders-to-colorado |access-date=2022-12-21 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10057619-deion-sanders-says-son-shedeur-will-be-colorados-qb-after-leaving-jackson-state|title=Deion Sanders Says Son Shedeur Will Be Colorado's QB After Leaving Jackson State|first=Joseph|last=Zucker|website=Bleacher Report|date=December 4, 2023|access-date=September 4, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Jeyarajah |first1=Shehan |title=Shilo Sanders transfers to Colorado: Ex-Jackson State DB reunites with father Deion, brother Shedeur |url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/shilo-sanders-transfers-to-colorado-ex-jackson-state-db-reunites-with-father-deion-brother-shedeur/ |access-date=17 September 2023 |work=CBSSports.com |date=28 May 2023 |language=en}}</ref>
In 1997, Sanders was going through a dark time in his life when his first marriage was ending and said he attempted suicide by driving a car off a cliff in Cincinnati while playing for the Reds. He has said he was driving as fast as 70 mph when he drove his car off a 30-to-40-foot (about 9-to-12-meter) cliff but that "there wasn't a scratch on me or on the car."<ref>{{Cite web |date=September 28, 1998 |title=Sanders: After suicide attempt, life turned around |url=https://www.tampabay.com/archive/1998/09/28/sanders-after-suicide-attempt-life-turned-around/ |access-date=2023-09-20 |website=Tampa Bay Times |language=en}}</ref>
Sanders, a Christian, said, "I finally just got on my knees and gave it all to the Lord." He has also said that power, money, sex, and his success almost ruined his life;<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 14, 2022 |title=Deion Sanders Tried Everything, But Only Jesus Satisfied |url=https://faithonthefieldshow.com/deion-sanders-tried-everything-but-only-jesus-satisfied-christian-athlete/ |access-date=December 7, 2022 |website=Faith on the Field}}</ref> later writing an autobiography titled such.{{citation needed|date=December 2024}}
The book was inspired after he began counseling with Bishop T. D. Jakes. He names his agent, Eugene Parker, as another person who has influenced his life.
In April 2012, a dispute between Sanders and his estranged wife, Pilar Sanders, led to Pilar and Deion both facing misdemeanor assault charges, but a judge later ruled that neither party had committed family violence in that instance.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kindelan |first=Katie |date=April 25, 2012 |title=Deion Sanders Cited in Domestic Dispute |url=http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/entertainment/2012/04/deion-sanders-cited-in-domestic-dispute |access-date=2023-09-20 |website=ABC News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-03-12 |title=Allegations of physical abuse raised in Deion Sanders trial |url=https://www.dallasnews.com/news/2013/03/12/allegations-of-physical-abuse-raised-in-deion-sanders-trial/ |access-date=2023-09-20 |website=Dallas News |language=en}}</ref> The former couple had a bitter custody dispute in 2013 over their three children, and a Texas jury voted to give Deion Sanders sole custody of their two sons and joint custody over their daughter. Pilar criticized the decision, saying that the judge had not allowed testimony about the 2012 dispute.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-03-13 |title=Deion Sanders claims court victory in child custody battle with estranged wife |url=https://www.dallasnews.com/news/2013/03/13/deion-sanders-claims-court-victory-in-child-custody-battle-with-estranged-wife/ |access-date=2023-09-20 |website=Dallas News |language=en}}</ref>
In 2012, Sanders co-founded the charter school Prime Prep Academy. Sanders was later fired as the coach after CFO Kevin Johnson alleged Sanders assaulted him. Sanders publicly denied the claim, but witnesses said he had grabbed the school official by the collar, causing him to fall. Sanders pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge and paid a $765.70 fine.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mosier |first=Jeff |date=2017-03-15 |title=Man who sued Deion Sanders' charter school for assault seeks money in Prime Prep Academy bank accounts |url=https://www.dallasnews.com/news/education/2017/03/15/man-who-sued-deion-sanders-charter-school-for-assault-seeks-money-in-prime-prep-academy-bank-accounts/ |access-date=2023-09-20 |website=Dallas News |language=en}}</ref> Prime Prep Academy was criticized for a lack of focus on academics and poor management, and it shut down in 2015.<ref name="Powell-2014" /> The school had amassed debt, owing payments to the IRS and a teachers' retirement fund, and, when it shut down, it did not have enough money to meet payroll.<ref name="Dallas News-2016" />
In 2015, Sanders was named the CEO of FOCUS Academies and granted the head coaching position at Triple A Academy, which Sanders led to face his ''alma mater'' North Fort Myers High School in Florida, a game featuring a key matchup between several ranked recruits.<ref>{{cite news |last1 = Stephens |first1 = Mitch |title = Deion Sanders to bring Triple A Academy football team to his alma mater, North Fort Myers |url = http://www.maxpreps.com/news/7MoOoap2sUyh4wsdXDCbjQ/deion-sanders-to-bring-triple-a-academy-football-team-to-his-alma-mater,-north-fort-myers.htm |date = April 19, 2016 |publisher = Max Preps |access-date = November 16, 2017 }}</ref> On August 17, 2017, it was announced by CBS Sports that Sanders would be switching coaching positions at a new high school to become the offensive coordinator at Trinity Christian-Cedar Hill high school in Cedar Hill, Texas. The move was significant for Sanders, as both his sons played at the high school. Sanders served on the staff as offensive coordinator under former Dallas Cowboy Aveion Cason.<ref name="CBS Sports">{{cite web |last1 = Skiver |first1 = Kevin |title = Deion Sanders is switching to offense to coach his sons in high school |url = https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/deion-sanders-is-switching-to-offense-to-coach-his-sons-in-high-school/ |work = CBS Sports |date = August 17, 2017 |access-date = November 16, 2017 }}</ref>
In 2020, Sanders graduated from Talladega College with a bachelor's degree in business administration with an emphasis on organizational management.<ref>{{cite news |url = https://abc3340.com/news/local/hall-of-famer-deion-sanders-graduates-from-talladega-college |title = Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders graduates from Talladega College |publisher = WBMA |date = August 16, 2020 |last1 = Harrell |first1 = Sumner }}</ref>
In 2021, Sanders underwent several foot surgeries and had two toes on his left foot amputated as a result of blood clots.<ref name=Surgery>{{cite news |url = https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/33454182/jackson-state-tigers-football-coach-deion-sanders-says-had-two-toes-amputated-medical-setback |title = Jackson State Tigers football coach Deion Sanders says he had two toes amputated after medical setback |agency = Associated Press |work = ESPN.com |date = March 8, 2022 |access-date = March 8, 2022 |language = en }}</ref>
On July 28, 2025, Sanders announced that he had bladder cancer and had his bladder removed.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/college-football/breaking-news/article/colorado-coach-deion-sanders-had-bladder-removed-after-bladder-cancer-diagnosis-170526397.html|title=Colorado coach Deion Sanders had bladder removed after bladder cancer diagnosis|work=Yahoo! Sports|first=Nick|last=Bromberg|date=July 28, 2025|access-date=July 29, 2025}}</ref> He was considered cancer-free following the procedure.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Legwold |first=Jeff |date=2025-07-28 |title=Deion says he's cancer-free after bladder removal |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/45843439/colorado-coach-deion-sanders-said-battled-bladder-cancer |access-date=2025-07-28 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref>
==See also== *List of Major League Baseball annual triples leaders *List of athletes who came out of retirement * List of athletes who played in Major League Baseball and the National Football League
==Notes and references== === Explanatory notes === {{Notelist}}
=== References === {{Reflist|30em}}
== Further reading == *{{Cite news |last=Graff |first=Chad |date=2024-08-13 |title=Deion Sanders' unrivaled legend at Florida State: 'The best athlete ever known to man' |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5105396/2024/08/13/deion-sanders-florida-state-college-football-nfl/ |access-date=2024-08-20 |work=The Athletic |language=en-US |url-access=subscription}}
==External links== {{Wikiquote}} {{Commons category}} * {{Official website|http://www.deionsanders21.com}} * [https://cubuffs.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/deion-coach-prime-sanders/4042 Colorado Buffaloes profile] * {{College Football HoF|2313}} {{Footballstats|nfl=deion-sanders|espn=|cbs=|yahoo=|si=|pfr=S/SandDe00|rotoworld=}} {{baseballstats|br=s/sandede02|brm=sander001dei}} * {{IMDb name|0761521}}
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