Deion Sanders, aka ‘Coach Prime,’ made his way into the football world, first as a player and now as a coach. As unique as his achievements highlight his career as a player, similarly came the expectations on his shoulders to back them up as a coach and now as a father. Coach Prime has always spoken in favor of his sons. However, he has not shied away from being critical of them whenever it was needed as a professional coach. In a discussion with Shannon Sharpe on ‘Club Shay Shay’ after his move to Colorado, Coach Prime shared his thoughts on nepotism allegations. “Not nepotism. That ain’t nepotism… You better go get the film and watch it. That’s real”

Sanders is known for his exceptional recruitment, man-management, and celebrity-like persona as a coach. While he has been praised for his decisions on and off the field, scrutiny has followed him for recruiting family members in crucial staff positions throughout. His decision to promote his son Shedeur into a starting quarterback for Jackson State was marred by media claims of ‘nepotism‘ and ‘favoritism.’ However, these claims did not last very long, as Coach Prime proved successful with his choices and faith in his son and staff.

Deion Sanders’ defense of his decision to choose family

Deion Sanders has made some tough decisions throughout his career. From picking his son in the Jackson State starting lineup to now at Colorado, he has been criticized for favoring his family. Even his brother Shilo Sanders was selected as the cornerback coach. This raised multiple concerns over the team’s recruitment process and its transparency. “I’m his dad. I have an expectation for him, and I’ve been seeing this. He’s been built and reared for this his whole life. You didn’t believe, but I believe,” he said, defending Shedeur following their 48-41 loss to USC in September 2023.

Recently, Coach Prime took to Instagram to express his appreciation towards Shedeur’s achievements, captioned, “I’m proud of you, son @shedeursanders. Nothing We do is New; we’ve always been who God called us to be.” This highlights his close bond with his son while maintaining his separate professional life. The Sanders household has grown up with a strong culture in the game. With Deion Sanders Jr., Shedeur Sanders, and Shilo Sanders all playing the sport. While they have the natural talent, they have carried forth the pressure of being the sons of an NFL Hall of Famer.

Read Also: Father-Son Duo of Shedeur & Deion Sanders Can Make College Football History by Ending 30 Year Drought

Deion Sanders Jr. played wide receiver at Southern Methodist University (SMU) and participated in the 2015 NFL Draft Combine. Shedeur Sanders has been the winner of the Jerry Rice Award as well as the Deacon Jones Trophy playing under his father. He has excellent ball abilities and speed, confirming his father’s decision to push him up the ranks. Shilo Sanders also played college football as a defensive back at the University of South Carolina. Regardless of their capabilities, Deion Sanders has kept a respectable private and professional relationship while molding his children.

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