Former Colorado Buffaloes safety Xavier Smith recently shared his perspective on his departure from the program following the arrival of Deion Sanders as the new head coach. Smith expressed concerns about the way Sanders handled the players who were left behind after the previous coaching staff was let go. Sanders, who came to Boulder from Jackson State in a highly publicized move, was accused by Smith of damaging the players’ confidence and belief in themselves with his approach. Smith believed that Sanders could have shown more compassion in his dealings with the team.
Having suffered a broken leg during his senior season and then dealing with a hamstring injury, Smith was working towards getting healthy for the 2022 season when Sanders took over. As a redshirt freshman at the time, Smith had high hopes going into a meeting with Sanders, thinking that the new coach would be supportive of the younger players. However, during the meeting, Sanders reportedly advised Smith to consider transferring and did not give him the opportunity to prove himself. Feeling upset and unappreciated, Smith eventually made the decision to transfer to UTEP.
Sanders did not shy away from making changes when he took charge of the program, particularly after the team’s first spring game. He explicitly stated that some players would be let go to make room for new recruits who aligned more with the vision of the coaching staff. Sanders emphasized the importance of quick and decisive action in the team’s evolution. Additionally, Sanders preached a message of “hope” following the previous year’s National Signing Day, indicating that the team was focused on recruiting players who could make a significant impact on the field and bring success to the program. The coach’s rhetoric centered around instilling a sense of optimism and determination within the team and the community.
Overall, Smith’s comments shed light on the challenges and tensions that can arise within a college football program during a coaching transition. The departure of key players, such as Smith, due to disagreements or issues with the new coaching staff can impact team dynamics and performance. Sanders’ straightforward and assertive approach to revamping the team may have led to some discord among the players who were not part of his immediate plans. As Sanders continues to implement his vision for the Colorado Buffaloes, it will be crucial for him to balance the need for change with the importance of fostering positive relationships and communication with all members of the team.
The situation at Colorado serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in collegiate athletics, where coaching changes can have far-reaching effects on the lives and careers of student-athletes. Sanders’ arrival brought a wave of excitement and anticipation to the program, but it also raised questions about his leadership style and its impact on player morale. Moving forward, it will be important for Sanders and his staff to reflect on the feedback from former players like Smith and consider how they can create a supportive and inclusive environment for all team members. By learning from experiences like Smith’s departure, Sanders can work towards building a cohesive and successful program that prioritizes the well-being and development of each player.
