"CFB players are making more money than y'all": Deion Sanders calls out 'envious' media for criticizing college players in NIL era
Colorado coach Deion Sanders criticized the media's coverage of college football players in the NIL era. In a press conference, he expressed concern over the increased scrutiny of athletes' off-field activities and financial dealings.
He noted how the media's attitude towards players has shifted dramatically since the introduction of NIL rules.
"Landscape has changed in football," Sanders said. "Once upon a time, you guys never attacked college players. Now they're making more money than y'all. And some of y'all are envious and jealous about that. So you're on the attack. It was hands off a college player because he's an amateur, remember? Remember that, guys? Now it's hands on.
“Go at them, any kind of way you want. They're making more money than me and I'm mad about it. It is what it is. I know you're gonna do your job and what you must do, but your job does not, say, attack. Like, if they didn't play well, leave it at that.”
Sanders also shared his thoughts on the media writing about players’ personal life and experiences:
“But the personal stuff, leave it to be personal. Because if we start flipping the script on y'all, you wouldn't like it. Take it easy. Thank you, Lord, for stopping me there. That was almost a good one.”
The advent of the NIL era has enhanced the earning potential of college athletes. Since 2021, many players have leveraged their name, image, and likeness to secure lucrative deals valued in millions of dollars.
One notable example is Shedeur Sanders, the Colorado quarterback and son of coach Deion Sanders. Sanders' NIL valuation of $5.1 million makes him one of the highest-paid college athletes in the nation.
Travis Hunter, a two-way star at Colorado, and safety Shilo Sanders, Shedeur's brother, also benefit from substantial NIL valuations. Hunter's valuation is $3.1 million, while Shilo Sanders' is $1 million.
Collectively, there are 34 high school or college athletes who have achieved seven-figure NIL earnings.
Deion Sanders critiqued Colorado State's behavior following victory
Deion Sanders condemned Colorado State's conduct during their matchup with the Colorado State Rams. According to Coloradoan, a Rams player engaged in a physical altercation with Sanders' coaching staff before the game.
Sanders also shared his dissatisfaction with the Rams' disrespectful comments made about his players, particularly two-way standout Travis Hunter.
“When you allow kids to sit an interview and talk against us, and you just got beat by 50 something in Week 1, come on dog.”
Hunter contributed to Colorado's 28-9 victory, completing 13 receptions for 100 yards and two touchdowns, along with his interception on defense. The win improved Deion Sanders' Colorado's record to 2-1 and set the stage for their entry into the Big 12 conference.