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In the high-stakes world of college football, bowl games often spark heated debates about player participation and risk management. For the University of Colorado, this year's Alamo Bowl against BYUis about more than just the final score. With Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders both expected to be top picks in the NFL Draft, their health and futures have taken center stage. Enter Deion Sanders, the outspoken head coach of the Buffaloes, who has taken unprecedented measures to safeguard his players.
On Monday, Sanders announced that the university had secured record-setting insurance coverage for Hunter and Shedeur Sanders, ensuring they are protected in case of injury during Saturday's game. Speaking shortly after arriving in San Antonio with his team, Sanders emphasized the importance of the move, calling it a groundbreaking decision in college football.
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"We happen to have two players that are probably gonna be the first two picks of the NFL Draft,"Sanders declared during a press conference. "They have received what I believe to be the highest amount of coverage ever secured in the history of college football."
This monumental decision underscores Sanders' commitment to his players. The insurance policies, arranged in collaboration with Colorado athletic director Rick George, far exceed the standard disability coverage typically offered to college athletes. While the exact numbers remain confidential due to privacy laws, sources close to the program confirmed to USA Today Sports that the policies represent a landmark investment in player safety.
Deion Sanders' vision: Unified team, unparalleled player protection
The idea, according to George, originated with Deion Sanders himself."It was his idea that we should get disability insurance for our student-athletes for this game to ensure that they play and, if there was some kind of injury, that they'd be well taken care of," George said. This proactive approach aligns with Sanders' mission to foster a culture of unity and ability, ensuring every eligible player is available for the bowl game.
The initiative also extends beyond Hunter and Shedeur Sanders. The university provided insurance coverage for the entire roster, a move rarely seen outside of College Football Playoff games. "We felt this was an additional way to our student-athletes," said CU spokesman Steve Hurlbert in a statement.
Travis Hunter, a dynamic two-way player, has been a focal point of attention due to his relentless playing style. While he has one season of eligibility remaining, Hunter confirmed his plans to declare for the NFL Draft alongside Shedeur Sanders, who will exhaust his eligibility after the Alamo Bowl.
Sanders' innovative approach highlights his larger vision for college football. "This is what bowl games should be about,"George remarked. "The entire team, playing together, finishing the season as one."