Warren Sapp stepping down from Deion Sanders’ team at Colorado

Warren Sapp Exits Colorado Coaching Staff

Deion Sanders’ team has experienced a notable loss of experience.

Warren Sapp, a Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive lineman, has stepped down from his position on the Colorado coaching staff, as announced in a statement from the school on Thursday.

“Warren Sapp has resigned from the CU football coaching staff to pursue other opportunities,” the statement read. “CU Athletics appreciates Mr. Sapp’s contributions to the football program during his time here and his commitment to our student-athletes.”

Details surrounding Sapp’s decision to leave remain vague.

Sapp joined the Colorado team in 2024 as a senior quality control analyst after years of involvement while taking graduate classes. He became the pass rush coordinator for the 2025 season.

When Sapp joined in 2024, Sanders expressed enthusiasm, stating, “I’m excited for Coach Sapp. He is a lifelong and dear friend who will be invaluable in what he brings to the team. Our new staff will appreciate him as well.”

However, Sapp’s tenure was marked by challenges; under his direction, Colorado had the highest average rushing yards allowed per game in the Big 12 at 222.5, while also allowing the fourth most points per game, averaging 30.5. Notably, no player managed more than 2.5 sacks during his time.

Sanders faced a tough third year with the team, ending the season at a disappointing 3-9, largely due to defensive shortcomings. Colorado managed to win just one of nine conference matches, making it Sanders’ worst record as a head coach—a stark contrast to the previous year, where he led the team to a 9-4 record and celebrated the accomplishments of Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter.

Sapp’s exit follows the departure of defensive coordinator Robert Livingston, who left to join the Broncos as their defensive passing game coordinator.

Before embarking on a coaching career, Sapp was a standout NFL player. Over 13 seasons, primarily with the Buccaneers, he accumulated 96.5 sacks, 20 forced fumbles, and 91 tackles for loss. He ranks 52nd on the NFL’s all-time sack list.