Deion Sanders Gives Emotional Speech to His Players

University of Colorado coach Deion Sanders had a message to share with his team regarding life after college football.

Sanders Prepares Players for Life After College

His speech included calling out his players and asking them what their plans are to ensure they find success in life after moving on from college football.

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“One thing that I don’t like is treating you like children,” Sanders said. “Y’all are young adults, you’re men, and we need to treat you as such … I don’t think you understand that ‘it’s over’ is coming soon.”

Man coach prime gave his players a Reality check 😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨💯💯💯

🎥: @DeionSandersJr pic.twitter.com/88UQVRG3rQ

— Shannonnn sharpes Burner (PARODY Account) (@shannonsharpeee) October 12, 2023

Only 1.6% of college football players make it to the NFL. While other sports, such as basketball, can provide opportunities with overseas leagues, the same does not ring true for football. While the XFL or USFL could be a viable option for some players, salaries are only a fraction of the NFL, with players earning $5,000 per game in the XFL.

While pursuing college football, players often get a free ride. This includes tuition and oftentimes housing and meals. While focusing on the sport and neglecting to make a plan for when it comes to an end, some players can find themselves in a tricky spot after college. This is exactly what Sanders wants his players to avoid.

“Everything you need is taken care of, right?” Sanders said. “How long y’all think that’s gonna last? It’s gonna be over with. So what are you gonna do? What’s the game plan?”

Sanders looked over the team for answers. He was met with majority silence as one player offered trade school and working for an electric company as his plan.

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“That’s one guy,” Sanders said. “How you mad at me because you won’t invest in you? … How you pissed off at me because I’m holding you accountable for not investing in you? Because I’m forcing you to be a man.”

Sanders has made headlines this season as he’s turned around the Colorado team and displayed such passion several times before.

After the Buffaloes have had just four winning seasons in the last 20 years and finished last season 1-11, they are currently 4-2 under Sanders and started the season with a huge upset over TCU that got people talking.

With a matchup against a subpar 1-4 Stanford team on Friday, the team is likely to improve to 5-2 and keep the historic momentum rolling.

While the team has had success on the field, Sanders emphasized the importance of having a plan after college. The speech may be a tough reality check, but it is all necessary as players are often underprepared for the end of their college careers and the freebies coming to a screeching halt.