Deion Sanders, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and current football coach at the University of Colorado, has made history by playing in both a Super Bowl and a World Series. Despite these accomplishments, the past few years have tested his health far more than his stellar sports career ever did. Still, Sanders has emerged victorious.
“I got my life back,” Sanders declared during a recent nationally televised interview. “I got my swagger back.”
During an appearance on “Good Morning America,” Sanders announced he is now cancer-free. He had faced blood clots that necessitated multiple toe amputations years ago. Last year, these issues resurfaced, requiring an aspiration thrombectomy in his left leg. Fortunately, cancer is now out of the equation.
Sanders shared, “I’m cancer-free. I’m good.” He credited outstanding doctors in Colorado and his faith for guiding him through. “I’m thankful, I’m healthy. I got my swagger back. I’m ready to coach my butt off and enjoy myself.” Early detection played a vital role, as doctors identified issues before they progressed. “Early detection helped me out tremendously,” he acknowledged.
In 2023, blood clots led to a surgery to enhance his circulation. By the following year, he experienced acute leg pain and recurring clots, necessitating a procedure to remove them. The campaign against his health troubles culminated in a 2025 bladder cancer diagnosis discovered during a vascular examination.
Treatment involved removing his bladder and rebuilding it with part of his intestine. However, the solution spawned new challenges. Sanders explained, “You’re sitting in the room, don’t know what’s what, can’t control your bladder.” He even experienced potentially embarrassing incidents. Checking if he had wet himself became a routine for Sanders during early trips and games.
He turned this situation around financially by becoming a spokesman for Depend, promoting its disposable adult incontinence underwear. He stated, “I don’t have to be afraid to travel anymore. I don’t have to be afraid to have a good night’s sleep.”
Back on track health-wise, Sanders is eager to channel his energy into coaching the Buffaloes this upcoming season. When asked about his focus now, he said, “Winning. And I’m healthy. I got my health back. I got my swagger back. I got my me back.” Reflecting on the previous year, he noted, “Last year, this time, I’m fighting cancer. Didn’t know which way it was gonna go… But I’m fully back now.”
