Deion Sanders With Harsh Words for Colorado Players

When Coach Prime speaks, people listen. And recently, Deion Sanders delivered a hard-hitting message to his Colorado Buffaloes team that hit home for many young athletes. “You’re 23 years old, and you’re going back to stay with your mom and dad. It’s what it is. It’s what it’s going to be. Where you going? Is normal checks coming in? This is OVER,” Sanders told the team, stressing the importance of planning for the future and working hard today.

The Harsh Reality of Life After Football

In his speech, Sanders highlighted the harsh reality many college athletes will face if they don’t take advantage of their current opportunities. Without the support of NIL deals or the structure of college football, many will struggle to transition into professional leagues or careers. Sanders said it bluntly, “Ain’t no NIL, ain’t no more collective. It’s over!” Coach Prime added a key piece of knowledge. “You’re gonna try and work your butt off and get in one of those leagues, right? But you won’t work your butt off here to get in THE league. You have an opportunity here. It’s free.”

Accountability with NIL Deals

Coach Prime also expressed mixed feelings about NIL deals, emphasizing the importance of players giving back to the program if they don’t maximize their opportunities. “I love the NIL, but I hate it at the same time,” he said. Sanders believes players should be held accountable for their compensation and that these deals should come with responsibility. This message called for a balance between opportunity and accountability.

A Call to Action for His Players

In his motivational speech, Sanders drove home the point that hard work today is what will set up his players for tomorrow. His message was clear: work hard now, not just for a paycheck but for a future. His challenge to the team was simple: “What’s the plan?” If they don’t prepare now, life will catch up fast.

Colorado players, and athletes everywhere, take heed—opportunity only knocks once, and it’s up to you to answer it with grit and determination.

Related: Travis Hunter Signs Game-Changing NIL Deal with NerdWallet