Colorado head coach Deion Sanders is seeking to bolster his football program with additional coaching experience drawn from the NFL. Speaking at Big 12 media days, Sanders expressed his strong interest in bringing aboard two high-profile names: former NFL quarterback and offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich and seasoned defensive coach Mike Zimmer. Sanders emphasized the value of NFL experience, highlighting that with the addition of these two, the collective NFL experience on his staff would rise to an impressive 204 years.
Sanders Pursues Byron Leftwich and Mike Zimmer to Strengthen Colorado’s Coaching Roster
Despite a previous report suggesting that Byron Leftwich had already joined the Colorado staff, Sanders clarified that Leftwich has yet to make a final decision. Leftwich, a first-round NFL draft pick in 2003, had a solid playing career followed by a coaching stint, including serving as the offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2019 to 2022. Sanders made it clear he is still “praying” that Leftwich will agree to come on board, indicating ongoing discussions and hopes of a positive outcome.
Deion Sanders (NFL)Mike Zimmer is another coach Sanders is actively recruiting. Although Zimmer had been reportedly considering retirement, Sanders is hopeful he’ll reconsider. Zimmer has a vast and respected coaching résumé, including a long run as the Minnesota Vikings’ head coach and various defensive coordinator positions across the NFL.
He also has a history with Sanders, having previously worked as a consultant at both Jackson State and Colorado. Additionally, his nephew, Andrew Zimmer, already serves on Colorado’s coaching staff.
NFL Veterans Help Drive Colorado’s Transformation Under Deion Sanders’ Bold New Vision
Under Sanders’ leadership, Colorado’s football program has leaned heavily into high-level NFL experience to attract recruits and build credibility. Alongside his pursuit of Leftwich and Zimmer, Sanders has already enlisted several former NFL stars.
Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk is coaching running backs, fellow Hall of Famer Warren Sapp oversees the defensive pass rush, and former NFL head coach Pat Shurmur leads the offense as coordinator. This emphasis on proven NFL talent is central to Sanders’ coaching philosophy.
Deion Sanders is reshaping Colorado’s football identity by closely aligning it with NFL standards and personnel. His pursuit of top-tier coaching talent is part of a larger vision to bring the program into the national spotlight. By surrounding his players with coaches who bring years of professional experience, Sanders is focused on developing both high-level athletes and a strong, competitive culture.
If he succeeds in bringing Byron Leftwich and Mike Zimmer onto the staff, it will further strengthen Colorado’s standing as one of the most ambitious and NFL-influenced programs in college football.
