After an extended period away from the Colorado Buffaloes football program due to health-related issues, head coach Deion Sanders made a public statement (sorta) Saturday—without speaking a word.
He posted an image to Instagram with a short caption: “I’m Coming.” The post, which shows a shaded trail surrounded by greenery, is widely believed to have been taken at his ranch in Texas, where Sanders has been recovering in recent weeks.
For now, nothing is official. But for a fanbase that’s grown increasingly anxious without concrete updates, this is the clearest indication yet that Sanders’ absence may soon come to an end.
Coach Prime’s absence
Sanders has not been with the team for summer workouts or recruiting camps. In late May, he revealed that he’d lost 14 pounds due to a health issue, though specifics remain unclear.
Given his past struggles with blood clots and multiple foot surgeries, there was understandable concern within the CU community.
The program has remained relatively quiet during his time away, with assistants overseeing summer activities. Still, the uncertainty surrounding his availability for the upcoming season has been one of the biggest off-field storylines of the offseason.
Positive signs from those close to him
Further encouragement came from former NFL cornerback Adam “Pacman” Jones, who Coach Prime was recently on his podcast reveling the health issues.
“Deion’s doing good,” Jones told BetOnline. “I think he’s got another week at home before they get started. He’ll be there. He’ll be ready to go.”
Jones suggest that Sanders is expected to be back in Boulder soon—if not for Big 12 media days, then shortly after.
If he’s unable to attend the event in Frisco, it’s likely that offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur or defensive coordinator Robert Livingston will represent CU, alongside player representatives Kaidon Salter, Julian “JuJu” Lewis, Jordan Seaton, DJ McKinney, and Alejandro Mata.
NFL legend and close friend Michael Irvin also spoke publicly about Sanders’ recovery, saying on his podcast:
“I’ve never seen Deion not want to battle. I guarantee you he’s going to be okay. That’s the most important part.”
Final thoughts
Sanders’ “I’m Coming” post and its timing and tone indicate a return is on the horizon. Whether he appears in Frisco this week or shortly after, the signs point to Coach Prime resuming his leadership duties soon.
And for Colorado, there’s no substitute. This program runs through Coach Prime. His absence has been deeply felt. His return will be equally exciting.
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