Deion Sanders NFL whispers have started among league executives

Explore More

Could Deion Sanders eventually take a ride on the NFL head coaching carousel?

With his Colorado Buffaloes off to a hot 3-0 start, there’s growing chatter among some league execs about whether or not the coach Prime Effect could work at the NFL level, according to The Athletic, who polled 10 league decision-makers amid growing buzz in Boulder.

“I’d definitely want to bring him in to hear what he has to say,” an NFL executive said. “He’s a smart guy and a good coach who has had a lot of early success. You’d want to pick his brain to see if it could translate.

“He knows how to motivate his players. He’s crushed the transfer portal, and maybe that would carry over into team building through free agency.”

Head coach Deion Sanders of the Colorado Buffaloes walks on the field as players warm up before a game against the Colorado State Rams at Folsom Field on Sept. 16. Getty Images

Among the 10 execs polled, seven believe Sanders — who won two Super Bowls on his way to a Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2011 — will be getting interview requests for a head coach position.

Although the other three did not shut down the idea, they believe a prediction is premature.

“I think he gets (NFL head coaching interview) offers this year,” an evaluator said. “But I believe he is better in college where he can tilt the scales and dominate the talent pool with his ability to recruit. I think he would be successful in NFL, too, but could really create a long-term powerhouse in college.”

One general manager lauded “the energy [Sanders] creates” and how “his players respond to it.”

Head Coach Deion Sanders talks with his son Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders (2) during the first half at Folsom Field on September 9, 2023 in Boulder, Colorado. Denver Post via Getty Images

“I would think you have to at least sit down and talk with him. He’s a leader, smart, a great marketer and has the (credibility) as a player and now adding to it as a coach,” the GM said.

A separate general manager noted, though, that Sanders could be limited in the NFL due to its restrictions.

“I just think Deion can dominate for an extended time in college,” the GM said. “He’ll have to deal with parity in the NFL. He might not have the same impact (in the NFL that) he has in college because he will be limited in how many guys he can bring in and attract because of the cap and draft.”

Sanders, who has been described by some of the league execs as a “CEO-type of head coach,” has made it clear on multiple occasions that he has no interest in coaching in the NFL.

Colorado Buffaloes head football coach Deion Sanders speaks to members of the media about National Signing Day during a press conference at the Dal Ward Athletic Center in Boulder on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023. MediaNews Group via Getty Images

Before Colorado’s 45-43 double overtime win over the Colorado State Rams on Saturday, Sanders said on ESPN’s “First Take” that he is where he is supposed to be.

“I’m in my purpose and I absolutely love it,” the two-time Super Bowl champ said.

Prior to joining the Buffaloes, Sanders served as the head coach of Jackson State for three seasons and compiled a record of 27-7 in his first stint as a head coach.

Sanders proved to be a juggernaut in recruiting when he brought Travis Hunter, a cornerback and wide receiver, from Florida to Boulder, along with his own son, former Jackson State quarterback Shedeur Sanders.

Colorado coach Deion Sanders with son Shedeur Sanders on the sidelines on Sept. 16, 2023. Getty Images

Though there have been successful college coaches who have failed miserably in the NFL — ahem, Urban Meyer’s disastrous 2-11 tenure with the Jaguars — the execs believe Sanders should not be included in that group.

With experience both in the league and success coaching at the college level, Sanders could offer a unique perspective as an NFL head coach.

Sanders’ Buffaloes face their toughest test Saturday when they visit Oregon.

ncG1vNJzZmimqaW8tMCNnKamZ2Jlf3R7j3Jma2lfmbKqu81mqpqmlJq%2FtHnNn6Nmr5iewLGx0axkoZmmmnq0wMCrq56cXZa6sLrGZqOemZeqsm6x156arqyZq7K0ew%3D%3D