Deion Sanders says he is cancer-free, fully healthy for 2026 season

Deion Sanders says he is fully healthy and cancer-free as Colorado heads toward the 2026 season, marking a major turnaround from a difficult 2025 when he battled bladder cancer. The Hall of Fame coach told Good Morning America that he has his health and swagger back after a year filled with uncertainty.

“I’ve got my health back. I’ve got my swagger back,” Sanders said. “Last year at this time I was fighting cancer, didn’t know which way it was going to go. I’m fully back now. Last year at this time, it wasn’t a good look.”

Sanders said early detection played a major role in his successful treatment. He was being treated for an unrelated health issue that required two toes to be amputated, and doctors caught the bladder cancer during that process.

“We fought the battle and we won the battle fighting cancer,” Sanders said. “I’m cancer free. I’m good. Great doctors in Colorado that have brought me through. God has brought me through. I’m thankful I’m healthy.”

He also spoke openly about the embarrassing side effects of bladder cancer, including involuntary urination, in an effort to help others understand the disease.

“You’re peeing in the bed. I remember going to a speaking engagement and the first thing I do is grab my crotch because I’m like, ‘Oh, my god, I hope I didn’t pee myself because I didn’t bring a change of clothes,'” Sanders said.

Sanders said his main focus now is preparing Colorado for the upcoming season. He is 58 years old and ready to coach at full strength.

“I’m ready to go coach my butt off this season,” Sanders said. “I’m having a good time.”

For Colorado, Sanders’ health matters because he is the face of the program. If he is fully healthy and ready to go, the Buffs will have their coach at 100% for the 2026 season.

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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Deion Sanders is cancer free, excited to coach 2026 season