Colorado football players use social media handles on practice jerseys

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders allowed players to wear social media handles on their practice jerseys ahead of the 2026 season. The practice, which involves replacing traditional surnames with Instagram and X handles, is intended to assist athletes in building personal brands during the NIL era. While these jerseys are exclusively for practice sessions, the move drew varied public criticism regarding the team's branding focus versus competitive performance. Sanders enters the season facing pressure to improve on a 3-9 finish from last year after the team underwent significant roster turnover through the transfer portal. Colorado faces Georgia Tech in the season opener on September 3 at Bobby Dodd Stadium in Atlanta. Players will continue to wear standard surnames and numbers during official games.

• 2:48 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Clown Show’ — CFB Fans React As Deion Sanders Continues to Let Colorado Players Place IG Handles on Practice Jerseys