Deion Sanders believes the Colorado Buffaloes have “just scratched the surface” of what they can achieve under his leadership following the announcement of a $54 million extension for the Pro Football Hall of Famer.
Colorado confirmed on Friday that they had extended Sanders’ deal following a superb turnaround during his two years as head coach. The new five-year deal will pay Sanders $10 million in 2025, with his salary set to rise to $12 million in 2029.
The Buffaloes had just finished 1-11 in 2022 when Sanders took over after an extremely successful spell at Jackson State.
After a 3-0 start, the Buffaloes slumped to finish 4-8 in Sanders’ first season in 2023.
But they took a huge step forward in 2024, posting their first winning record since the 2016 season. Colorado went 9-4, losing to the BYU Cougars in the Alamo Bowl, with Sanders’ son Shedeur starring at quarterback and Travis Hunter winning the Heisman Trophy for his play at both wide receiver and cornerback.
And Sanders, who won Super Bowl titles with the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys in a decorated NFL career, expects bigger things to come Colorado’s way after committing his long-term future to the program.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to continue building something special here at Colorado,” said Sanders. “We’ve just scratched the surface of what this program can be.
“It’s not just about football; it’s about developing young men who are ready to take on the world. I’m committed to bringing greatness to this university, on and off the field.
NOW GIVE ME MY THEME MUSIC
Coach Prime is staying in Boulder. 🏔️#GoBuffs | https://t.co/vJJTAN5ceR pic.twitter.com/nAwcnLlI36
— Colorado Buffaloes Football (@CUBuffsFootball) March 28, 2025
“We’ve got work to do, and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else but here, making history with these incredible players and this passionate fan base. Lastly, anybody got at least a five-bedroom home with acreage for sale?”
Colorado’s athletic director Rick George echoed Sanders’ sentiments.
“Coach Prime has revolutionized college football and in doing so, has restored CU football to our rightful place as a national power,” said George.
“This extension not only recognizes Coach’s incredible accomplishments transforming our program on and off the field, it keeps him in Boulder to compete for conference and national championships in the years to come.”
The Buffaloes have lofty ambitions, and they’ll resume their quest to realize them on August 29 when they open their 2025 season against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.
