By Sunday 
Why the College Game Is the Perfect Fit for Coach Prime
Deion Sanders, the electrifying Hall of Famer turned head coach, has made it clear—he has no desire to coach in the NFL. Despite speculation linking him to professional teams, including a conversation with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, Sanders insists that the pro game isn’t for him.
The Cowboys Connection: A Brief What-If
When the Cowboys began their coaching search, reports surfaced that Jones had reached out to Sanders. Though the call was intriguing, it never materialized into a formal interview. Instead, Dallas ultimately hired Brian Schottenheimer.
For Sanders, who has embraced his role as head coach at the University of Colorado, the opportunity wasn’t enough to lure him away from the college game. He addressed the topic during his show, We Got Time Today, in a conversation with former Cowboys quarterback and longtime friend Troy Aikman.
Practice Culture: A Dealbreaker for Sanders
During the show, Sanders reflected on the difference in practice intensity between his playing days and the modern NFL. He recalled the fierce competition he and Aikman experienced in Dallas, where “not allowing Michael Irvin to catch a pass” and “never throwing an incompletion” were personal standards.
Now, he believes the league has softened.
“That’s the way we practiced,” Sanders said. “I know it’s cute, but I couldn’t coach pro ball. The way they practice, the way they go about it, I couldn’t take it as a man and as a football enthusiast.”
Sanders’ passion for the game is undeniable, and he remains protective of its integrity. “The game is still providing for Troy and I,” he added. “There’s no way I could allow that to happen on my watch. That would be tough.”
Could Success Change His Mind?
While Sanders remains steadfast in his stance, Aikman had a different perspective. He believes Sanders could thrive as an NFL coach if given the opportunity.
If Sanders continues to build a powerhouse at Colorado, it’s possible that more teams will try to change his mind. But for now, Coach Prime seems content where he is—shaping young athletes, instilling discipline, and keeping the game he loves alive at the collegiate level.