Deion Sanders Addresses Comments About Offer to Critics

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders responded to remarks by his longtime associate, Christopher Neely. Known as “Uncle Neely,” Neely suggested Sanders was joking about paying $50,000 to quiet his critics.

When questioned by reporters, Sanders clarified, “That was a joke.” Neely, a YouTube content creator, said detractors benefit economically from Sanders’ presence. “Some of them, he joked, ‘I’ll give you $50,000 to not mention me for a year,’ but no one took the offer,” Neely added.

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Sanders was coaching during a Colorado game against Oklahoma State Cowboys at Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, Oklahoma, on Oct. 24, 2026.

Asked about the so-called hush money, Sanders was initially puzzled. Neely, present during the news conference, offered context. Sanders reiterated, “I’d love to see how far giving money for silence would go, but it was a jest.” He highlighted that criticism wasn’t new to him since his NFL days, which continued into his coaching career.

Sanders, during a game against Iowa State, stated, “I would never pay someone to silence them. I don’t care about negative talk,” explaining it as jest about profiting from his brand. “This is what life looks like because I’m unique and unapologetic,” he asserted.

Having moved to Colorado after a successful run at Jackson State, Sanders swiftly elevated the team’s standing, clinching nine victories and a bowl game in his second season. Coach Prime is now in his fourth year, leading the team amid diverse challenges.

Colorado wrapped up the 2025 season with a 3-9 record. Despite a 2-0 start this season, they have lost five consecutive games. The Buffaloes are slated to compete against Kansas State on Saturday.

PHOTO by Brian Bahr/Getty Images shows Sanders heading to midfield after a game versus Oklahoma State Cowboys.

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Chantz Martin provides sports coverage for Fox News Digital.