It’s not just his role in the Colorado Buffaloes that keeps him going. Warren Sapp is a proud father of a proud daughter and both go beyond themselves to show their support. “Dad’s just a spectator now,” Mercedes Sapp previously said. “I’m a cheerleader now, I wear their colors and everything.” But the Pro Hall of Famer isn’t just going to spectate the world going by on this Valentine’s Day — he made sure the world knew who his No. 1 love!

On February 14, he posted a heartwarming post on Instagram – a jolly picture of him with a big smile as he held baby Cede in his arms. But it’s the caption that melted hearts — “When you’ve had the same Valentine’s Love for 27 years!” His daughter Cede, short for Mercedes, couldn’t let this sweet gesture pass by without a response. Taking to her IG story, she reposted the photo and added her own caption — “Stop, I love you 🥹🥹🥹🥹” Talk about a father-daughter touchdown! 

Warren Sapp and Cede share a close bond, frequently expressing their affection and pride for each other on social media. Last season’s Buffs’ game against Utah is an example. Colorado won big going 49-24 showcasing Sapp’s knowledge of the trenches. But for him, the biggest win came when Cede posted a message that would make any dad’s heart swell with pride — “Forever proud of you, Dad.” Like her dad, Cede has also carved a path for herself in sports as the captain at Lake Highlands Preparatory School in Orlando. 

January 13 was another highlight when both Warren Sapp and Cede separately attended the NFC wild-card game between Tampa Bay and Washington. In the midst of the action, the big board flashed an unexpected picture — Warren Sapp himself, grinning and waving as the crowd erupted with cheer. Cede caught the moment, posting a reel to her Instagram with the caption, “heyyyyyyyyy!!! @warrensapp.” A legendary cameo for a legendary dad! 

Warren Sapp and Cede are forever each other’s No. 1 fans

Warren Sapp isn’t just about celebrating victories — he goes all out for milestones too. When Cede turned 27 last November, he didn’t hold back. Adding a hint of nostalgia with a picture of him holding Cede as a baby, he captioned, “I only wish I was still able to hold her like this!! Happy 27th birthday, captain! Do love you so much!!” In a sweet response, Cede hit back with “I LOVE YOU, DAD.” 

Whether it’s celebrating milestones or showing up for each other, their connection runs deep, built on years of unwavering support. Just as a great team rallies together through every victory and setback, this father-daughter duo continues to lift each other up, proving that true support — both on and off the field — never wavers.

Warren Sapp and Cede’s public displays of admiration aren’t just about sentiment; they’re a reflection of the kind of dedication and heart that champions are made of.