The Colorado Buffaloes football team, under the leadership of coach Deion Sanders, has implemented a new set of rules and fines for player conduct. Sanders presented these rules at the first team meeting of the 2026 season, where coaches and team leaders discussed the expectations with the players.
The fines include penalties for being late or a no-show to practices, meetings, strength and conditioning workouts, and treatment sessions. There are also fines for violating team rules, public or social media misconduct, damaging university property, losing team equipment, and misusing athletic training equipment. Sanders emphasized that there will be an appeal process for players who are fined.
In addition to the new rules, Sanders has brought on Aaron Fletcher as the Buffs’ new cornerbacks coach. Fletcher will work alongside Kevin Mathis, who has transitioned to coaching nickel backs and serving as the defensive pass game coordinator. Fletcher brings a wealth of experience from coaching at various universities and working with NFL teams.
The fines collected from the players will contribute to the CU athletic department operating funds. This system of fines is not unique to Colorado, as other programs across the country have similar structures in place. It is permissible to fine the players as long as the fines are not tied to their name, image, and likeness or on-field performance, but strictly for violations of team rules.
Overall, the Buffaloes are gearing up for the 2026 season with a new coaching staff and a set of expectations aimed at fostering discipline and accountability within the team.
