The latest chapter in the Deion Sanders era doesn’t involve a highlight-reel play or a transfer portal win. Instead, it involves a pointed, public jab at one of the industry’s leading recruiting and scouting outlets: 247Sports.
The friction began when 247Sports released a series of rankings and analytical pieces evaluating Colorado’s roster depth and Sanders’ coaching methods. The outlet recently hired more personnel to exclusively cover the Buffaloes and Sanders. Sanders responded with a phrase that has since circulated among the fanbase.
Deion Sanders Criticizes 247Sports During Press Conference
While discussing the hiring expansion at 247Sports during his spring press conference, Sanders said, “247 they hiring everybody right now… they must be desperate.”
Holy Sh*t: Deion Sanders ROASTS 247Sports during his spring offseason press conference.
“247 they hiring everybody right now… they must be desperate.”
Coach Prime is unfiltered this season…😳😬 pic.twitter.com/nCYsiMkgeK
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) April 12, 2026
Sanders’ comments highlight a growing tension between college football programs and the media entities that cover them. In the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), coaches are highly protective of their brands. This is not the first time Sanders has targeted media members or outlets. From his time at Jackson State to his selective answering of questions in Boulder, Sanders has curated a strictly controlled media environment.
A primary storyline for Colorado in 2026 is the transition at quarterback. After playing four games in 2025 to preserve his redshirt, Julian Lewis enters the season as the projected starter. He also justified his hype during the Spring Game, throwing dimes and catching attention online.
While Lewis has demonstrated arm talent and poise, expectations are tempered by his youth. He will be supported by a revamped coaching staff, including new offensive coordinator Brennan Marion.
The Buffaloes face a challenging schedule in 2026, featuring non-conference road trips and a dense Big 12 slate. The season opener against Georgia Tech is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 3. Navigating the road environment in Atlanta could build momentum for mid-season matchups against Big 12 opponents like Texas Tech and Utah.
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As the Buffaloes prepare for their next season, Sanders has made it clear that he views the traditional scouting industry with skepticism.
Colorado’s on-field performance remains to be seen, but Sanders’ interaction with the press will continue to be a focal point of the program’s coverage.
