Football Legend Deion Sanders Conquers Aggressive Bladder Cancer: "It Was No Stroll, It Was Far From Easy," He Declares
Deion Sanders Overcomes Bladder Cancer, Set to Coach University of Colorado
Deion Sanders, the head coach of the University of Colorado Buffaloes, has successfully undergone treatment for an aggressive form of bladder cancer. The football legend is now declared cancer-free and is actively preparing to lead his team in the upcoming season.
Sanders was diagnosed with bladder cancer earlier in 2025. He underwent a robotic cystectomy, a surgical procedure that involved the removal of his bladder, and a reconstruction using a section of his intestine to function as a new bladder. The cancer was found during routine vascular testing linked to circulation issues Sanders has faced. His tumor was very aggressive with a high recurrence risk if left in the bladder, so removal was the selected curative option.
Lymph node tests showed no spread of cancer, and Sanders will not need radiation or chemotherapy, as per his oncologist, Dr. Janet Kukreja. Despite previous physical limitations and weight loss, Sanders expressed a positive outlook and readiness to lead the Buffaloes in fall 2025. He publicly encouraged men to get regular health checks after sharing his experience.
Sanders has faced other health issues in the past. In 2021, he had two toes amputated due to blood clot problems while training at Jackson State. However, he remained optimistic throughout the process, as stated by the team's physical therapist, Dr. Lauren Askevold.
The University of Colorado had a record of 4-8 in their first season with Sanders and 9-4 last season, with an appearance in the Alamo Bowl. They will need to replace Shedeur Sanders, who was drafted by the Cleveland Browns, and Travis Hunter, winner of the Heisman Trophy, this season.
In a show of support, Randy Moss, the retired receiver and Pro Football Hall of Famer, took a leave of absence from ESPN in early December after undergoing cancer surgery. Moss called Sanders every two days during his cancer treatment to check on him. His wife, too, prayed for Sanders during his difficult time.
As Sanders prepares for the upcoming season, his son, Shilo, is in training camp with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Sanders indicated that he never doubted he would coach again. In fact, he signed a contract extension through the 2029 season with the University of Colorado.
[1] [Medical Journal Article] [2] [Sports News Article] [3] [Local News Article] [4] [Healthcare Publication Article]
- Despite a previous battle with aggressive bladder cancer, Deion Sanders, the head coach of the University of Colorado Buffaloes, is set to lead his team in the upcoming American football season, following a successful treatment and a clean bill of health.
- In line with his health-and-wellness advocacy, Sanders publicly shared his bladder cancer diagnosis and treatment journey, urging men to prioritize regular health checks.
- In the world of sports, football legend Deion Sanders and retired receiver Randy Moss have both faced cancer challenges, showcasing resilience and support for one another in their respective battles against the disease.
- As a cancer survivor, sports coach Deion Sanders has faced other medical conditions, such as blood clot problems and the amputation of two toes, but his dedication to his health and wellness, as well as his passion for coaching, remains undeterred, as evidenced by his contract extension with the University of Colorado.
