The Freedom From Religion Foundation has issued a formal warning to the University of Colorado, claiming head football coach Deion Sanders is violating constitutional law by incorporating religious practices into his team’s activities. The nonprofit organization, which advocates for the separation of church and state, argues that Sanders’ use of team prayers and chaplains amounts to religious coercion at a public university.
The FFRF’s letter demands that Colorado officials take action to halt these practices, citing concerns that student-athletes and staff may feel pressured into participating in religious activities. The complaint follows reports that Sanders has regularly led team prayers and invited religious figures, such as pastor E. Dewey Smith, to address the team throughout the season.
After Colorado’s victory over Baylor on Sept. 21, 2024, a letter was sent to the university challenging Sanders’ religious practices, but he has given no indication that he plans to change his approach.
Sanders has remained vocal about his faith, frequently sharing messages on social media and continuing to pray with his team.
First Liberty Institute, a conservative legal group that defends religious freedom cases, has stepped in to support Sanders, arguing that the FFRF is misapplying the law. They point to the long-standing tradition of chaplains in public spaces, including within sports teams, as evidence that Sanders’ actions do not violate the Constitution. The legal dispute draws comparisons to a 2022 U.S. Supreme Court case, in which a high school football coach won the right to pray on the field after games. However, Sanders’ situation differs because his prayers occur in the locker room, raising concerns about whether participation is truly voluntary.
This is also not the first time Sanders has faced scrutiny over his coaching style. After taking the job in 2023, he was challenged by the FFRF for similar religious expressions, prompting the university to provide him with additional training on legal limitations regarding faith-based activities at public institutions. However, Sanders has continued to make faith a central part of his leadership, sharing religious messages online and leading prayers with his players.
Last week, Hollywood actor (and licensed minister) Denzel Washington spoke to the team during spring training, offering encouragement to players.
“We are in the world, but don’t be of it,” Washington told the team. “Don’t rely on it for your happiness. Rely on the Almighty. Do not rely on this world for your happiness. Because it’ll tell you Tuesday that they love you and Wednesday that they hate you.”
Sanders expressed gratitude for Washington’s visit, reinforcing his commitment to faith-based leadership: “I get the opportunity with this team to really walk in what I believe,” he said.
The University of Colorado has not yet responded publicly to the FFRF’s latest complaint.
