Overview

• At the 2025 ESPY Awards in Los Angeles, Shane Gillis quipped that Shedeur Sanders’s 13-11 record scarcely justified Colorado’s decision to retire his No. 2 jersey.
• Colorado had honored Sanders and Heisman winner Travis Hunter in April after just two seasons under head coach Deion Sanders, breaking a practice that reserved jersey retirements for long-tenured legends.
• Critics contend the expedited honors reflect favoritism and point to overlooked figures like Darian Hagan, who led Colorado to its 1990 national championship without receiving a jersey retirement.
• The university maintains that jersey retirement decisions rest solely with the athletic department and current head coach, dismissing claims of improper influence.
• The exchange at the ESPY Awards underscores a broader clash over celebrating modern stars versus upholding longstanding traditions in Colorado football.