Designer suits, gold chains, and that unmistakable swagger – Deion Sanders has never been a person to blend in. Hall of Fame, Two-sport pro athlete, and now a head coach of Colorado Buffaloes is changing the game dynamics, both on and off the field. You can see that he is not just weaning boldness; he is living it at its fullest. And what he has refused to give up just might be the reason to set him apart from the rest. So, what’s the secret? What’s keeping him unapologetically himself and that too at the cost of personal appearance? This story goes beyond field play and style – it’s personal. 

In a recent talk show, We Got Time Today, Sam Jay gave Deion Sanders two options to choose from: “Be extremely allergic to soul food [or] have a permanent crooked hairline.” Well, the host thought that was a difficult choice to make. But Coach Prime straight ahead replied: “I gotta eat soul food.”

The head coach is a very big fan of African-American culture and food. He even mentioned once that he used to eat soul food before practice. As an elite athlete, he did not think much about nutrition. However, he follows a healthy diet and morning routine to stay energized. But unlike other sports stars of recent times who swear by strict diets, Coach Prime was different and didn’t think much about nutrition during his Prime Time years. 

He once put it in Time magazine in 2018 that he is a big lover of Fort Myers’ oldest restaurant – Farmers Market. Also highlighted, “some of the best soul food I’ve ever had. It’s a must every time I go back home.” This makes it certain that he has a huge respect and love for his own culture. He even talks so openly about racism and football that only a few coaches at an elite level are willing to do so. In this regard, he mentioned, “We’re doing things that have never been done, and that makes people uncomfortable. When you see a confident Black man sitting up here talking his talk, walking his walk, coaching 75% African Americans in the locker room, that’s kind of threatening. Oh, they don’t like that.” Even people are defining his team as Black America’s team.

He is in absolute sync with the vibe of promoting African-American traditions, identity, and values. Also, food is what drives him with energy that works as a fuel to satisfy his soul’s cravings. He has given a lot of time and effort in thinking about his players’ nutrition needs and efficiency on the field, with a $200,000 kitchen strategy. But such an individual, who has always emphasized staying healthy and looking good, is risking personal appearance for soul food? 

Deion Sanders has his priorities set

Coach Prime simply cannot live without his soul food. Even given a situation where he would have an allergy to his soul food. And go permanently with crooked hair, he would not hesitate to have it. In the talk show, we can also see that a reference to an American rapper, Soulja Boy, has been put up. “You know what? Soulja Boy did a lot with a crooked hairline,” said Jay. Deion replied, “I love you, dawg. Cuz I know you go hard in the paint.” Well, we all know how famous he is. And we can say that his reference was particularly highlighted to point out that people with crooked hairlines are also making fans buzz with talent. This emphasizes the significance of sheer talent more than looks. And on that, Deion seconded with his hand-moving gesture. 

But at the same time, we have all seen Coach Prime say, “If you look good, you feel good; If you feel good, you play good; If you play good, they pay good.” He has also actively spoken about the significance of self-care, mental health, and staying active, making him a role model for many. Remember, once he said, “My health journey has been a tremendous challenge but a learning experience as well.” We can now understand that not getting to take a cheat meal of soul food during the journey of recovering from injuries was among the challenges.

At the end of the day, he is not just a coach of the Colorado football team. He’s also a human who loves food and is leading a movement to promote African-American culture and food. He is the personality that has proven that true greatness is not about fitting in. But about standing out and being genuine. From his bold personality to his unapologetic love for soul food, he certainly proves that authenticity always wins. And if that means rocking with even a crooked hair? So be it. Because let’s be real- when was the last time being ordinary made a way to make history?