Deion Sanders enters the 2026 season under a considerable amount of pressure after Colorado struggled to a 3-9 record last year.
With the Buffaloes trying to turn things around, questions about Sanders’ future have grown louder. That led former NFL star and three-time Super Bowl champion Mark Schlereth to discuss the coach’s situation, drawing criticism from some fans who felt he was being too harsh on his friend.
Mark Schlereth Stands by Deion Sanders Take
Colorado enjoyed a 9-4 season in 2024 but took a major step backward in 2025 after losing stars such as Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter to the NFL.
Now entering his fourth season, Deion Sanders faces increased pressure to produce results in the Big 12.
During an appearance on 104.3 The Fan, Schlereth discussed Sanders being on the hot seat, which led to some backlash from fans.
While responding to a fan on social media, Schlereth stood by his comments, making it clear that being friends with Sanders does not change the reality of coaching. “Deion is a friend of mine,” he said, but added that it is a “production business” where coaches and players have to win to keep their jobs.
His comments quickly drew a response from fans. One fan sarcastically questioned the friendship, writing, “That’s your ‘friend.’”
Schlereth then reminded the fan that he had previously visited Colorado and helped Sanders during the spring. He also stressed that Sanders understands the pressure that comes with coaching at a high level.
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Another fan argued that Schlereth was not acting like a good friend “right now.”
Schlereth strongly disagreed with the criticism, replying, “By telling the truth? He needs to win, otherwise, he won’t retain his job. How is that being a bad friend?”
By telling the truth? He needs to win otherwise he won’t retain his job. How is that being a bad friend? https://t.co/gFwvbcRASI
— Mark Schlereth (@markschlereth) August 30, 2026
He continued, “You would never tell a friend the truth? You don’t sound like a very good friend. Deion knows he needs to win to retain his job. That’s how the real world works.”
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Colorado Faces Questions About Its Roster
Colorado has also taken an unconventional approach to roster building under Sanders, relying heavily on the transfer portal rather than traditional recruiting.
The Buffaloes added more than 40 transfers ahead of the 2026 season, while over 30 players left the program. The strategy has helped Colorado add experienced talent quickly, but it has also raised questions about depth, chemistry, and long-term development.
For Sanders, the focus now is simple: winning.
After last season’s 3-9 finish, Colorado needs significant improvement in 2026. Whether Sanders can deliver that turnaround will ultimately determine whether Schlereth’s warning about his job security becomes a reality.
