Is Deion Sanders battling cancer? Doctors reveal bladder tumor and surgery update

Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders shared on Monday that he had been diagnosed with bladder cancer earlier in the year. He revealed this news during a press event ahead of the 2025 college football season, where he spoke about his diagnosis, medical care, and recovery process.

Dr. Janet Kukreja from the University of Colorado Cancer Center explained that Sanders had surgery to take out his bladder after doctors discovered a malignant tumor. She said the cancer was caught before it could spread, and the surgery aimed to treat the condition. She mentioned this type of bladder cancer tends to return often, which led Sanders to choose the most complete treatment available.

“I am pleased to report from the surgery that he is cured from the cancer,”she said.

Deion Sanders’ medical team announced that he was diagnosed with a cancerous bladder tumor and underwent surgery for it

“I am pleased to report that the results from the surgery are that he is cured from the cancer.”
pic.twitter.com/6n5laQfiNe

— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) July 28, 2025

“If you see a porta potty on the sideline [at Folsom Field], it's real”. The Coach Prime added, "Slowly but surely I built myself back up to where I'm able ... I'm probably still 12 pounds down ... It's been a tremendous journey," Deion Sanders said.

Deion Sanders shares cancer diagnosis and recovery after bladder surgery

Doctors diagnosed Deion Sanders after running routine vascular tests. This testing is standard for him because of his prior health issues. In 2021, blood clots and compartment syndrome led to the loss of two of his toes. The vascular test results prompted a referral to a urologist, who then found the tumor.

Although doctors gave him this troubling news and he underwent surgery, Sanders said he never thought about leaving his coaching role. He chose to keep his condition private even from his sons. He wanted them to stay focused during the NFL Draft. His son, Shedeur Sanders, a quarterback, was picked in the fifth round of the draft. This was lower than many earlier predictions.

Sanders took time off from the team after spring practice to recover at his home in Texas. He appeared during Big 12 media days in July but avoided discussing his health at the time. Monday’s news conference was the first time he opened up about his diagnosis and surgery.

He explained the effects he has dealt with since the operation, like weight loss and urinary incontinence. Sanders said doctors made him a new bladder using part of his intestines through a common procedure called neobladder reconstruction. He also mentioned needing to adjust to major changes in his daily life, including frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom.

Deion Sanders shared that he finalized his will, emphasizing the need to prepare during uncertain health situations. He told his players and coaching staff about the diagnosis the day before the press event.