Deion Sanders Will Fine His Colorado Players Up to $5,000 for Public or Social Misconduct, $500 for Being Late to Practice

Deion Sanders Will Fine His Colorado Players Up to $5,000 for Public or Social Misconduct, $500 for Being Late to Practice

Deion Sanders is putting real money behind discipline at the University of Colorado. The Buffaloes head coach has introduced a fine system that could cost players thousands for misconduct — both on and off the field — as he continues reshaping the program’s culture.

Under the new policy, players can be fined up to $5,000 for public or social media misconduct, while more routine issues come with smaller penalties. Being late to practice carries a $500 fine, while missing team activities, meetings, or conditioning sessions could result in even steeper charges.

Reports indicate the fines are expected to be tied to players’ NIL earnings, reflecting Sanders’ push to treat the program more like a professional organization. The system is designed to enforce accountability and reinforce expectations around punctuality, behavior, and team rules.

The move has sparked mixed reactions online, with supporters praising Sanders for instilling structure and consequences, while critics argue that fining college athletes — particularly for social media behavior — goes too far.

Still, bold decisions have become a trademark of Sanders’ tenure at Colorado. From overhauling the roster to redefining team standards, Coach Prime continues to make it clear that discipline and professionalism are non-negotiable.

As the Buffaloes prepare for the upcoming season, one thing is certain: under Deion Sanders, showing up late — or slipping up publicly — could now come at a serious cost.