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Deion Sanders talked the talk just as much as he walked the walk. One of the most gifted athletes to ever play professional sports, he somehow juggled a baseball career while also ranking as one of the NFL’s elite players. Since retiring, Sanders has carved out a successful television career on the NFL Network.

However, on Tuesday, the NFL legend made a massive step toward achieving a bold proclamation he made earlier this year. And in doing so, he officially turned the page to a new chapter of his life in order to achieve his dream.

Deion Sanders went from an NFL star to the NFL Network

Nobody embodies the word “versatile” quite like Deion Sanders. At Florida State, he earned unanimous All-American honors as the top cornerback in college football. He also starred on the track and in the outfield for the Seminoles.

The brash defensive back took his talents to the NFL, where he revolutionized the game as a true shutdown corner. An eight-time Pro Bowl selection, Sanders snagged 53 interceptions in his Hall of Fame career. Thanks to his dazzling speed, the 6-foot-1, 198-pounder recorded nine pick-sixes in 14 seasons.

In addition, the athletic marvel also starred on the baseball diamond. Sanders spent roughly nine years in the MLB. Though he hit just .268, the two-time Super Bowl champion swiped 186 bases and became the only person in history to appear in both a Super Bowl and a World Series.

After retiring, Sanders took his talents to television. The charismatic, outspoken analyst began working for the NFL Network more than a decade ago. Over the years, he has become arguably the most popular figure on the network, with a signature segment called “Let’s Go Primetime.”

Sanders won’t be returning to his old job

NFL Network fans who have gotten used to tuning in for Deion Sanders’ analysis received devastating news on Tuesday. According to the New York Post, the 53-year-old will not return to NFL Network due to a contract disagreement. The Post reported that the network wanted Sanders—whose contract recently expired—to take a pay cut.

“Deion has been one of the key figures responsible for the growth of the NFL Network,” NFL VP of communications Alex Riethmiller said in a statement. “We thank him for his work and wish him the best in the future.”

Sanders’ decision to leave the NFL Network should not come as a surprise. His son, Shedeur, just signed with Florida Atlantic University. The former NFL star also has another son, Shilo, who plays college football at the University of South Carolina. And based on Deion Sanders’ bold proclamation, the decision to leave the NFL Network makes total sense.

The NFL Hall of Famer can make his dream come true

Deion Sanders starred on the football field as a player. He successfully transitioned to a career in front of the cameras. And by leaving the NFL Network in behind, he just took a massive step toward making his bold 2021 proclamation come true.

The 2011 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee has openly discussed his desire to enter into the world of coaching. With two sons playing at the collegiate level, it makes sense that Sanders would leave behind a well-paying television gig to pursue a coaching career.

Rumored to be a candidate for the FSU head coaching gig, Sanders ultimately did not get the job. However, he made a bold statement about his future in the business on a January appearance on The Dan Patrick Show.

“I’m going to be a head coach in college football next year.” Sanders proclaimed. “I am that definite. I am that assured that I am.”

Considering his availability just opened up, it certainly looks like that statement could come true. Sanders obviously boasts a wealth of knowledge and credibility from his playing days. He has a dynamic personality that should help him connect with players. And of course, his marketing and star power could appeal to potential recruits.

Perhaps Deion Sanders has some insider knowledge of where he will end up in 2021. But for now, we will just have to wait and see if he succeeds in making his proclamation come true.

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