Deion Sanders has transformed Colorado into one of college football's biggest attractions since he came to Boulder in 2023. But after Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter left for the NFL, expectations among fans and analysts have changed dramatically.

Former NFL MVP Cam Newton recently discussed Sanders, giving a blunt reply on Colorado's struggles. During an episode of his 4th&1 With Cam Newton podcast, Newton felt that Sanders needs to accomplish more to prove that he is a championship-level HC.

“He [Deion Sanders] keeps playing how he’s playing, losing how he’s losing; he’s not going to be in next year’s game (EA Sports College Football 27) either,” Newton said on July 11.

Newton's comments on the July 11 episode of the 4th&1 podcast showed his belief that, in the end, winning defines coaches, regardless of their popularity.

Coach Prime is one of the sport's most accomplished figures. A Pro Football Hall of Famer, two-time Super Bowl champion, and former NFL Defensive Player of the Year, he previously led Jackson State to national prominence before taking over Colorado.

So, even though Deion 'Coach Prime' Sanders is one of football's biggest personalities, Newton emphasized that losing can dim even the most famous brands.

Sanders' tenure has witnessed both remarkable achievements and frustrating setbacks. The Colorado team finished 3-9 in 2025, including a 1-8 conference record, raising questions about the program's path heading into 2026.

The upcoming season could define the next phase of Sanders' coaching career. Newton's comments may be harsh, but it shows the reality of college football.

Recently, Deion Sanders admitted to one of his coaching mistakes.

Deion Sanders admits major Colorado roster mistake after Shedeur Sanders left

As Colorado prepared for the 2026 season, Sanders acknowledged that one of his biggest mistakes came when he tried to replace his son, Shedeur Sanders, under center.

"I made a big mistake, man," Sanders told ESPN during the event, per Buffaloes Wire. "You got to understand it. I've coached my son my whole life. So everything was like, compared to that. It's hard to get."

Sanders explained that he measured every QB against Shedeur's skill set and football IQ, making the transition more difficult than expected. Shedeur moving to the NFL is what finally changed his roster-building philosophy.

'Coach Prime' is now more focused on evaluating players rather than comparing them to a standard set by an individual player.

The Buffaloes are now expected to build around freshman Julian 'JuJu' Lewis as Sanders looks forward to leading Colorado back into Big 12 contention in 2026.

What are your views on Deion Sanders coaching? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit