Deion Sanders Fines Colorado Players for Breaking Team Rules

Avery K. Bristow

Published: January 27, 2026 1:27 PM ET

Deion Sanders Fines Colorado Players for Breaking Team Rules

Deion Sanders, head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, is instating a strict set of fines for players who break team rules. This initiative aims to enforce discipline and accountability among the players. At a recent team meeting, Sanders outlined specific expectations for conduct alongside several fines for various violations.

Fines Structure Under Deion Sanders

Coaches and team leaders discussed the new rules and the financial penalties accompanying them. Here’s a breakdown of the fines for different infractions:

Late to practice: $500
No-show for practice: $2,500
Late to a meeting/film session: $400
No-show for a meeting/film session: $2,000
Late to strength and conditioning workout: $1,000
No-show for a strength and conditioning workout: $1,500
Late to treatment: $1,000
No-show for treatment: $1,500
Violations of team rules: $1,000 to $2,500, depending on severity
Public or social media misconduct: $2,000 to $5,000, based on severity
Damaging university or team property: $3,000 plus repair costs
Losing team technology or equipment: $1,000 plus replacement costs
Misuse or destruction of athletic training equipment: $500 to $2,000

Appeal Process and Justification

There is an appeal process available for players who feel the need to contest their fines. Although student-athletes are not considered employees, a source from BuffZone clarified that these fines are permissible. They are distinct from player compensation linked to name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals and do not relate to on-field performance.

The principles behind this punishing structure are not exclusive to Colorado; many college football programs implement similar systems. The funds collected from these fines will contribute to the operational budget of the CU athletic department.

Coaching Changes in the Buffaloes’ Program

In addition to the new fines, Coach Deion Sanders has appointed Aaron Fletcher as the new cornerbacks coach. Fletcher, who will collaborate with current coach Kevin Mathis, brings a wealth of experience from previous positions. His career spans several prestigious institutions.