Deion Sanders on other coaching jobs: “I don’t understand that”

Colorado coach Deion Sanders said he is not focused on other potential jobs, including Texas A&M, and wants to continue putting down roots in his current role.

Sanders, who lived primarily in Texas before starting coaching at Jackson State University, was asked Tuesday about those who endorsed him as a candidate for the Texas A&M job, including ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith.

“I want to win a game,” Sanders said. “Do you think I really think I sit down and think about things like that? What do you notice about me that makes you really think I’m going to sit down and say, ‘Oh, yeah, Stephen A.’ Come on, I’m fine. We have to win.

Sanders, 56, said he is not asked by recruits’ parents about his future plans but, if so, would reiterate his intention to remain in Colorado. After being hired in December, he signed a five-year, $29.5 million contract with the school.

“I tell them what I told them when they came: I’m here,” Sanders said. “I tell them my mom is here, my sister is here, my dog ​​is here, my daughter is here, three of my sons are here, my other daughter comes almost every home game. We are here.”

“I get mail here, I pay taxes here. I don’t hear that. Maybe our recruiting staff hears it, but I don’t hear it. I’m too honest with my parents. I will tell them the truth.”

Sanders coaches two of his sons, Shedeur and Shilo, who are both eligible to play in 2024. Since both transferred to Colorado, they were not allowed to transfer again without sitting out.

Sanders is 4-6 in his first season in Colorado, where he won his first three games and four of five before snapping a five-game losing streak. The Buffaloes, who visit Washington State on Friday night, have lost five Pac-12 games by seven points or fewer.

“We just can’t make that play when we have to make it,” Sanders said. “That tackle, that block, that pass, that catch, that interception, that kick, those are things like that. The thing I love most about this team is that they don’t give up. You have no quitting in you. You.” Fight until the end of every damn game.

Sanders pointed out how many players are eligible to return to Colorado in 2024. He said “real football enthusiasts” recognize what Colorado is building.

“There are a lot of people who don’t do that and think we’re just losing,” Sanders said. “No, no, you have to achieve victory in the midst of defeat.”