Deion Sanders entered the 2026 college football season needing a boost. After signing a new contract extension just a year prior, expectations were high at Colorado.

However, following a disappointing 3-9 campaign last year and starting the season at 3-5, questions surrounding Coach Prime's future in Boulder have become increasingly relevant. Especially after allowing the most points during his tenure against Oklahoma State in Week 8.

Sanders signed a five-year, $54 million contract extension two years ago, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football. This followed a 9-4 season in 2024, although Colorado finished the year with a disappointing loss to BYU in the Alamo Bowl. The 2025 season proved considerably more challenging both personally and professionally for Sanders. While the Buffs struggled on the field, Coach Prime was beating bladder cancer.

Colorado opened with a 14-13 win over Georgia Tech, but that's been the biggest highlight of the season. The Buffaloes have struggled against every Big 12 opponent, including a 27-24 overtime win over Kansas State. The Buffs have led many games this season, but have found new ways to lose.

With Colorado at 3-5, its worst record under Sanders going into Week 10 of the season. The attention has turned toward the financial details of his contract, particularly the buyout structure. Colorado would owe Sanders $26.6 million if he was fired without cause before December 31, 2026.

Sanders would owe Colorado $10 million in liquidated damages if he terminated his contract on or before December 31, 2026. The buyout decreases annually for Sanders based on the remaining years of his contract. The contract applies if Sanders accepts another FBS coaching position or in the NFL. It also allows a prospective employer to cover the buyout.

Deion Sanders' bonuses include several performance-based incentives. He can earn $150,000 for reaching bowl eligibility, another $100,000 for every additional victory beyond six wins, $150,000 for winning the Big 12 and $75,000 for reaching the conference championship game.

Additional incentives include $450,000 for a New Year's Six bowl invitation and $750,000 for winning a national championship. Sanders can also collect $150,000 for National Coach of the Year honors, $75,000 for Big 12 Coach of the Year and $50,000 if Colorado achieves a team APR of at least 965.

Following a three-win start to the season, Sanders and the Buffs need to win three of the final four games. However, CU has won a single Big 12 game in a calendar year and fans are disappearing in droves. Colorado's investment in Sanders hasn't led to consistent results on the field.