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Deion Sanders gives fascinating explanation when asked why he took Jackson State job

Stephen Samraby: Steve Samra02/27/22SamraSource
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Charles A. Smith/JSU University Communications/Jackson State University via Getty Images

Deion Sanders is making headlines as the leader of Jackson State. Changing the game one day at a time, Sanders joined The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to explain what led him to taking the Tigers job.

“Why not?” started Sanders. “Why not? It was a tremendous opportunity to advance equality. To allow people to understand that there is — not just a devastation, that it’s a turbulent time in HBCU sports.

“And I just wanted to bring a — shed light, bring equality, bring a spotlight on the programs. That’s what we’ve accomplished at Jackson State.”

It’s about more than football for Deion Sanders. The former NFL star is changing the culture and reputation of HBCU football. Moving forward, the sport of college football will be better for what Sanders is doing at Jackson State.

Sanders on coaching in the NFL: ‘I couldn’t do it. I’m old school.’

Furthermore, Deion Sanders isn’t looking to leave Jackson State anytime soon. While many believe he’s on his way to being the most sought-after coach in college football, could the NFL eventually be an option for Sanders?

In an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Sanders sent a message to the Cowboys. Additionally, the Jackson State coach shot-down the possibility of coaching in the NFL.

“I love Jerry Jones. I love the Cowboys. But I cannot coach pros,” stated Sanders. “I have a problem with a professional athlete not doing his job, and he’s getting handsomely paid. I don’t have any toleration for that. There’s some out there working their butts off, but there’s plenty out there that just don’t get it.

“And I would fight. I would fight everyday as a coach. I couldn’t do it. I’m old school. I’m old school, man. You know, we made it this far from your work ethic. Yeah, it would be tough.”

Evidently, Deion Sanders believes his coaching style works better in college than it would in the NFL. Still, that won’t stop franchises from calling if the former Cowboys star can keep impressing at the collegiate level.