Deion Sanders Joins Debate on NFL Defensive Backs

Colorado coach weighs in on podcast discussion between Richard Sherman and Aqib Talib

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders expressed excitement about a podcast discussion between former NFL cornerbacks Richard Sherman and Aqib Talib debating which defense - Sherman's "Legion of Boom" or Talib's "No Fly Zone" - was better. Sanders, who had a successful NFL career as both a cornerback and wide receiver, said he has "his popcorn ready" for the conversation, indicating he may join the discussion to provide his own perspective.

Why it matters

As a former elite NFL defensive back and current college head coach, Deion Sanders' input on the debate between Sherman and Talib could provide valuable insight. Sanders' experience and knowledge of the game from both sides of the ball give him a unique perspective that could add depth to the discussion.

The details

The debate between Sherman and Talib stems from Sherman's recent decision to do film breakdowns over the offseason to explain the nuances of NFL defenses to the public. Sherman challenged members of the Denver Broncos' "No Fly Zone" defense to come on his podcast and debate which unit was superior - his "Legion of Boom" or Talib's "No Fly Zone". Talib responded enthusiastically, saying he was "setting it up" and had "the numbers" to make the case for the Broncos' defense.

  • On February 14, 2026, Deion Sanders tweeted that he had his "popcorn ready" for the upcoming podcast discussion between Sherman and Talib.

The players

Deion Sanders

The head football coach of the Colorado Buffaloes and a former NFL cornerback and wide receiver who had a successful professional career.

Richard Sherman

A former NFL cornerback who has become a media personality, joining the Thursday Night Football crew on Amazon Prime and planning to do film breakdowns to explain NFL defenses to the public.

Aqib Talib

A former NFL cornerback who was a member of the Denver Broncos' "No Fly Zone" defense, which he is prepared to defend against Sherman's "Legion of Boom" on an upcoming podcast.

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What they’re saying

“I got my Popcorn already! This gon be good!”

— Deion Sanders, Head Coach, Colorado Buffaloes (Twitter)

“Just got off the line with Sherm!!! We setting it up!!! And I got the numbers!!!”

— Aqib Talib, Former NFL Cornerback (Twitter)

What’s next

The podcast discussion between Richard Sherman and Aqib Talib debating the merits of their respective NFL defenses is expected to take place in the near future, with Deion Sanders potentially joining the conversation to provide his unique perspective as both a former elite defensive back and current college head coach.

The takeaway

Deion Sanders' involvement in the debate between Sherman and Talib highlights the continued influence and relevance of former NFL stars in shaping the current conversation around the game. As a coach, Sanders can use this discussion to motivate his own players and deepen their understanding of defensive football.