Recently, former NFL linebacker and $8M veteran Ryan Clark revealed his emotional turmoil at the time when he learned about the cancer diagnosis of Deion Sanders. Coach Prime may well be described as a domineering, glamorous persona on the pitch and electric off the pitch. The news that the Colorado Buffaloes head coach had the tumor in his bladder removed was a different tune to Clark and other members of the football community.
On the latest episode of “The Pivot” podcast, Clark addressed the impact that Sanders’ confirmation of the diagnosis had on him. The fact that Sanders had cancer was not the only thing that affected Clark. It was the fact that someone as vibrant and charismatic as the 57-year-old had become vulnerable.
This led Clark and the other members of the podcast to discuss why early detection is important.
“You look at him as this God, this physical God, but like he said, God had him,” Clark said (0:49). “So, I took it as, ‘Man, check yourself out.’ Early detection can save your life.”
The 57-year-old coach underwent surgery earlier this summer and is now cancer-free. This was a shocking revelation to the college football fraternity, considering the energy and increasing power that Sanders had in the game. However, Clark and others found this to be a wake-up call, that health is not selective even when it comes to legends.
Deion Sanders’ Impact Reaches Far Beyond the Game
Clark and “The Pivot” podcast team did not just pay tribute to Sanders but also warned others. The point that they focused on is that Sanders was not larger than life. He also required medical care, and this is a fact that should motivate everyone.
“Don’t matter the color, race… men, go get yourselves checked out,” Clark said.
In addition to the health message, the crew discussed what Sanders had accomplished off the field. They referred to Sanders’ revival of HBCU football at Jackson State and influencing players like Travis Hunter to commit to them. His influence brought the national spotlight to his program at Colorado. He is one of the most influential people in contemporary sport due to his skills in leading and transforming cultures.
This very personal story of Sanders has already become a kind of symbol. He is a symbol of resilience, leadership, and purpose, not only to football fans, but also to families, communities, and even to those who have received a life-changing diagnosis.
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