Deion Sanders, head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, has introduced a new disciplinary system that imposes fines on players for violating team rules. During a team meeting on March 1, 2024, Sanders outlined specific conduct expectations and the associated financial penalties for infractions. This initiative is part of his broader strategy to foster accountability and discipline within the team.
The fines for rule violations are substantial. Players will incur a fine of $500 for being late to practice and $2,500 for missing a practice altogether. Similarly, being late to meetings or film sessions will result in fines of $400, while no-shows for these sessions will cost $2,000. For strength and conditioning workouts, late arrivals will be fined $1,000, and absences will incur a $1,500 penalty. Players are also liable for $1,000 for being late to treatment sessions, with a $1,500 fine for failing to attend.
In addition to these fines, Sanders has established a scale for violations of team rules, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 based on the severity of the offense. Public misconduct, including inappropriate social media activity, will also be penalized with fines between $2,000 and $5,000. Financial penalties will be applied for damaging university or team property, with fines of $3,000 plus repair costs, while losing team technology or equipment will incur a $1,000 fine plus replacement costs. Misuse or destruction of athletic training equipment will result in fines ranging from $500 to $2,000.
While the student-athletes at Colorado are not classified as employees, a source from BuffZone indicated that these fines are permissible. The fines are not linked to the players’ name, image, and likeness (NIL) agreements or their on-field performance, but rather are strictly for violations of team rules. The source also noted that similar systems are in place at other programs across the country, making this approach not unique to Colorado.
Players will have an opportunity to appeal any fines imposed on them, which adds a layer of fairness to the disciplinary process. The funds collected from these fines will be directed towards the operating budget of the Colorado athletic department.
In addition to the new fine structure, Sanders has made changes to his coaching staff. He has appointed Aaron Fletcher as the new cornerbacks coach for the Buffaloes. Notably, Fletcher will not replace any current coach but will work alongside Kevin Mathis, who has been coaching corners for the past three years and will now focus on nickel backs and serve as the defensive pass game coordinator. Fletcher brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as the co-defensive coordinator and cornerbacks coach at Abilene Christian in 2024. His coaching resume also includes stints at Arizona State, Missouri, Tulsa, and Houston Baptist.
With these changes, Coach Sanders aims to instill discipline and elevate the performance of the Colorado Buffaloes as they prepare for the upcoming season. The implementation of fines for rule violations could set a precedent in college football, emphasizing the importance of accountability among players.
