Deion Sanders kept his cancer battle quiet - Brett Favre calls him a true fighter after finding out: "He's a grinder"
In a year that has tested the resolve of legendary
NFL
figure Deion Sanders, the Hall of Famer has emerged victorious in a deeply personal battle. Known as 'Coach Prime,' Sanders recently underwent surgery to remove his bladder after being diagnosed with cancer.
While the news stunned fans and peers alike, it was Brett Favre's heartfelt response that highlighted just how much Sanders' journey has resonated within the NFL community.
Brett Favre was 'caught off guard' but never doubted Deion Sanders' willpower
When TMZ Sports reached out to NFL icon Brett Favre, the former quarterback didn't hold back his emotions. 'Thank God they found it, and it was a successful surgery. But I was completely caught off guard with the news, but I'm thankful that the prognosis looks good,' Favre said.
Despite his surprise, he wasn't at all shocked by Sanders' unyielding spirit in facing adversity. 'He played every play in practice as if it were the Super Bowl-winning play,' he recalled.
The two shared a locker room briefly with the Atlanta Falcons back in 1991, yet their bond clearly transcended time. "I'm not surprised [he isn't taking time off]. He's a grinder. When I was with Atlanta my first year, Deion had already solidified his place in NFL lore already.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Here's The Average Price of Gutter Replacement For 2500 Sq Ft House
LeafFilter Gutter Protection
Get Rates
Undo
But one thing about Deion, he was never a tackler, and he would admit that. But he worked his butt off… He played every play in practice as if it were the Super Bowl-winning play.
So I'm not surprised he's digging his heels in and is going to keep coaching," Favre said..
He even offered heartfelt encouragement, saying, '"Not that he needs my advice, but just keep doing what you're doing. And as long as you enjoy it, whatever that may be, in his case it's coaching… keep doing it," Favre said.
"You're impacting so many people and so many people are pulling for you, just keep it rolling."
Favre, who is battling Parkinson's himself, understands the emotional weight of health struggles. His admiration for Sanders was evident, not only as a former teammate but as someone who sees Sanders as a resilient symbol of inspiration.
Coach Prime remains undeterred and focused on the 2025 season
Following his successful surgery, Sanders made it clear he has no plans to step away from the sidelines.
Currently leading the Colorado Buffaloes, the 2024 season marked a turning point as the team went 9-4 and landed an Alamo Bowl appearance. With sights now set on the 2025 opener against Georgia Tech on August 29, Coach Prime affirmed his commitment: 'I was always going to coach. It was never in my spirit, in my heart, that God wouldn't allow me to coach again.
'
He also addressed the speculation about his retirement with a touch of humor and confidence: 'I know you're probably thinking something's going to happen today that ain't gonna happen… I don't know where you get the news from.'
Sanders also used his public platform to urge others, especially men, to prioritize their health. 'Men, everybody, get checked out… please get yourself checked,' he said. His cancer was only discovered during unrelated testing, reinforcing the need for routine care and early detection.
Also Read:
Fans drag Chiefs into debate as NFL's virtual first down system makes debut at Hall of Fame Game
For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the
India vs England Test match
here.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
38 minutes ago
- Time of India
James Cook leaves fans puzzled after skipping Bills practice without injury update
James Cook leaves fans puzzled after skipping Bills practice without injury update (Image Via X) Buffalo Bills running back James Cook was back at the team's training camp at St. John Fisher University in Pittsford, New York, but did not participate in on-field drills. James Cook watched from the sidelines on an exercise bike. When asked by reporters, including ESPN's Alaina Getzenberg, why he didn't practice, James Cook gave a single-word reply multiple times: 'Business.' This marked his first non-participation in a mandatory session since beginning contract talks with the team. James Cook sits out practice as contract deal remains unfinished With coach Sean McDermott absent, running back James Cook, 25, in his fourth NFL season, was not on the injury report for Sunday, August 3. The practice was at St. John Fisher University in Pittsford, New York, and James Cook was there, but did not take part, instead he was on the sideline, riding the exercise bike for most of his time. When questioned post-practice, James Cook repeatedly said 'Business' as the sole reason for not practicing and declined to confirm if he'd return on Monday with the same response. His short reply has now sparked more questions about his contract status, especially since he had been fully participating until this point. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo His decision to skip drills without any injury report has fans and media guessing what will happen next. Also Read: Rashee Rice Speaks For First Time After Dallas Highway Crash As NFL Punishment Looms James Cook and Buffalo Bills' contract talks context James Cook was drafted in the second round by the Buffalo Bills in the 2023 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year rookie deal worth just shy of $5.83 million that included a $1.42 million signing bonus and $3.1 million guaranteed. Now he is down to the last year of that deal and seeking a new one that accurately reflects his worth as a top running back. Despite his hold‑in tactics, both sides, James Cook's camp and the Buffalo Bills reportedly remain in communication. Buffalo Bills GM Brandon Beane has expressed hope a deal can be reached while acknowledging the challenge of fitting that salary under the team's cap. James Cook finished the 2024 season with over 1,000 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, leading the league in rushing scores, following his 1,122‑yard season in 2023. His strong back-to-back seasons give him the upper hand in asking for a better deal, and the Buffalo Bills know his performance is key to their offense. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Watch: How KL Rahul entertained The Oval crowd with his football skills
KL Rahul in action for India (Images via Getty Images, Screengrab) The five-Test series between India and England may have ended in a gripping draw, but KL Rahul managed to steal the limelight in unexpected fashion through his football skills. In a now-viral clip shared widely on social media platform X, the 33-year-old Indian batter was seen pulling off an impromptu juggling act on the field. As England's Gus Atkinson guided a delivery towards Rahul's direction, most expected a routine pick-up. But instead of bending to collect the ball with his hands, Rahul casually flicked the Dukes ball up with his foot and juggled it impressively. Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW! He kept the ball in the air for nine kick-ups, drawing loud cheers from the Oval crowd, before finally collecting it with his hands and tossing it back. Atkinson was also seen staring at the unexpected moment . The incident quickly went viral, with fans lauding Rahul's calm composure and silky touch. Rahul has been a key figure for India throughout the series, anchoring the opening stand with his experience and technique. He ended the five-match contest with a total of 532 runs, underlining his value in the side led by Shubman Gill. Bowled Over by Miya Magic: Mohammed Siraj shines brightest | IND vs ENG 5th Test The final Test at The Oval delivered one of the most thrilling finishes in recent memory. England began the final day needing just 35 runs with four wickets in hand, but India, led by a fiery spell from Mohammed Siraj, clawed back to win by six runs—their narrowest Test victory by runs. That win meant India drew the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2-2 and gave their ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 campaign a solid push. They now sit third on the points table with 28 points and a PCT of 46.67. Poll What did you think of KL Rahul's juggling act on the field? Impressive and skillful Just a fun moment Not a fan of it For an Indian side in transition, missing several senior players, this result and Rahul's steady presence—both with the bat and, unexpectedly, with the ball at his feet—offered fans plenty to cheer about. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Why does Mohammed Siraj celebrate like Cristiano Ronaldo? His Gujarat Titans teammate explains
London: India's Mohammed Siraj celebrates after taking the wicket of England's Gus Atkinson during the fifth day of the fifth Test match between India and England, at The Oval cricket ground, in London, England. (PTI Photo/R Senthilkumar)(PTI08_04_2025_000434A) Mohammed Siraj 's Gujarat Titans teammate Jos Buttler revealed the reason behind his Cristiano Ronaldo-style Siuuu celebration. "He's putting in a Herculean effort," Buttler told Stuart Broad on their podcast For the Love Of Cricket. 04:30 Bowled Over by Miya Magic: Mohammed Siraj shines brightest | IND vs ENG 5th Test Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW! "I actually played with him at Gujarat, and I think one of the first wickets he got was caught somewhere. I was waiting for the Cristiano celebration. He said, 'Oh no, no, I only do it when I bowl someone out.' "So that was the perfect finish for him—to hit the stumps and be able to unfurl his celebration," Buttler added. Siraj had previously revealed the inspiration behind the celebration. 'I only do the Cristiano Ronaldo celebration when I clean bowl someone—not for a catch or LBW. I do it because I like and admire him for his work ethic, the routine he follows, and the way he performs consistently. He always has a never-give-up attitude. Obviously, Ronaldo is the best—GOAT of all time," Siraj had said earlier. Ben Stokes press conference: On Mohammed Siraj, Chris Woakes batting with injury, 2-2 result England, set 374 to win, lost a nail-biting encounter by just six runs, with Siraj returning innings figures of 5/104 as India ended a rollercoaster campaign level at 2-2. The hosts resumed on Monday's final day at 339/6, needing just 35 more runs for a win that would have secured a 3-1 series victory. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Pierce Brosnan's Wife Lost 120 Pounds - This Is Her Now Undo But they had no answer to the enduring skill of fast bowler Siraj, who featured in all five games. He undid England on Monday with a brilliant burst of 3 for 9 in 25 balls, sealing the win by knocking over Gus Atkinson's off-stump. "From the first day until the fifth Test, fifth day, we fought an unbelievable fight," said Siraj, who bowled a marathon 185.3 overs during the series. "God must have written something good for me, that's why I won this match and took the last wicket. "When I woke up today, I thought I could do it. I downloaded a picture from Google that said 'believe'." The 31-year-old was named Player of the Match after an overall return of 9 for 190. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
