Deion Sanders' Quietest Spring Yet at Colorado — And Why That Might Be the Point

Coach Deion Sanders turned in his most quiet spring yet at Colorado, but the Buffaloes made some changes that might bring the noise back in the fall.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 8:48am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Colorado Buffaloes football game or practice, with sharp, overlapping planes of maroon, gold, and blue representing the fragmented, multi-perspective nature of the sport.Deion Sanders' quieter approach this spring could signal a shift in focus for the Colorado Buffaloes as they look to rebound in the fall.Boulder Today

Colorado football coach Deion Sanders recently concluded a spring practice season in Boulder that was quite unlike any of his others. It was quiet, with no televised spring game, no NFL Network coverage of the team's Pro Day, and no admission charged for the spring game. However, this low-key approach might be just what the Buffaloes needed after finishing 3-9 in 2025.

Why it matters

Sanders' quieter spring could signal a shift in focus for the Buffaloes, as they look to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season. The team has made some key changes, including a healthier and more energetic Sanders, the emergence of a potential successor in offensive coordinator Brennan Marion, and a concerted effort to build team chemistry through player-organized activities.

The details

Sanders, 58, had to deal with recurring blood-clot issues this spring but said he's 'good' now and appears healthier than he's been since learning he had bladder cancer last year. New offensive coordinator Brennan Marion has taken on a visible leadership role and has been entrusted with more responsibilities by Sanders. The team also has 59 newcomers and is focusing on building chemistry through player-organized events like barbecues and outdoor activities.

  • Sanders went to the hospital this spring to deal with recurring blood-clot issues.
  • Sanders learned he had bladder cancer in April 2025 and spent May, June, and most of July 2025 away from Boulder while recovering from having his bladder removed.
  • Sanders recently went to St. Croix on spring break with his girlfriend, Karrueche Tran, where they looked to buy a home.
  • The Buffaloes' season opener is on September 3 at Georgia Tech.

The players

Deion Sanders

The 58-year-old head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes football team, who has battled health issues in recent years but appears healthier and more energetic this spring.

Brennan Marion

The new offensive coordinator for the Colorado Buffaloes, who has taken on a visible leadership role and been entrusted with more responsibilities by Sanders.

Julian 'JuJu' Lewis

The highly regarded redshirt freshman quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes, who is expected to be the team's starting QB in 2026.

Andre Adams

A four-star high school quarterback recruit out of Nashville that Brennan Marion hopes to land for the Colorado Buffaloes in the future.

Tyler Martinez

A Colorado Buffaloes linebacker who hosted a team barbecue on Easter Sunday to help build team chemistry.

Ben Finneseth

A Colorado Buffaloes safety who is helping organize more team outings and activities to bring the players together.

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What they’re saying

“Look a little younger, a little more spry, a little more energetic.”

— Deion Sanders, Head Coach

“I'm happy, man. It did change my outlook on certain things in life. I believe I enjoy life more.”

— Deion Sanders, Head Coach

“To see coach give me the autonomy to do some things and run some things, it's been great.”

— Brennan Marion, Offensive Coordinator

“We're just going to open up our houses. Just trying to get everyone around each other is the biggest thing.”

— Ben Finneseth, Safety

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.