Adam RittenbergESPN Senior Writer Jun 22, 2023 4:01pm ET2 minute read
Colorado coach Deion Sanders does not have to have his left foot amputated at this time, although he is scheduled to have surgery to remove blood clots in both legs on Friday.
Sanders said in a video Thursday that despite significant circulatory problems, there was “no talk of amputation” of his left foot. The 55-year-old, who will start his first season in Colorado, recently had a meeting with his medical team where foot amputation was presented as a possible outcome. Sanders’ meeting with doctors was broadcast on YouTube as part of Thee Pregame Show. During the meeting, he said he had no feeling in the soles of his feet.
“The doctors just told me, worst comes to worst, this was going to happen,” Sanders said in Thursday’s video. “But I believe in staying on the right so we never have to go left.”
While coaching Jackson State in 2021, Jackson was hospitalized after complications from surgery to repair a dislocated toe. He suffered blood clots, missed three games and underwent several other surgeries including the removal of two toes.
Sanders said Thursday his doctors want to straighten two of the remaining toes on his foot but can’t operate until circulation is restored. If Friday’s procedure is successful, Sanders could have his toes repaired.
The Pro Football Hall of Famer thanked everyone who sent prayers and well wishes. Sanders is expected to practice his first game in Colorado at TCU on Sept. 2.
“You have to understand: I’m not going anywhere because we’re coming,” he said. “I’m just trying to get that all straight so that when I walk on the sidelines and speak my words, I can go my way.”