“Ain’t worked since 89”: Deion Sanders pays emotional tribute to mom after making her the face of new sneaker collection

Deion Sanders shared a heartfelt message for his mother, Connie Knight, as he modeled his latest sneaker in tribute to her. Mother's Day is on May 11, and "Coach Prime" wanted to celebrate his mother earlier on Instagram. On Tuesday, he posted several pictures of them wearing the Nike Air DT Max 96 "Love Letter to Connie."

The Colorado Buffaloes coach said his mother continues to motivate him in his life and career.

"My Mama was and still is my WHY? All the way from Ft. Myers Florida #239 She ain't worked since 89!!! And u got the nerve to Hate , Hate on that. #CoachPrime @mommaconnie21," Sanders wrote.

The Nike Air DT Max 96 "Love Letter to Connie" will be released on Wednesday for $170. The sneakers are mostly red, and the Nike logo and lettering are white.

Footlocker has the shoe for pre-order, with several sold-out sizes.

Deion Sanders enters his third year with the Colorado Buffaloes

The 2025 season will be a test for Deion Sanders as a coach. On Mar. 28, he agreed to a five-year extension worth $54 million to remain with Colorado through the 2029 season. His new deal was signed after speculation that he would leave the team to coach one of his sons in the NFL.

Last year, the Buffaloes finished with a 9-4 record and competed in their first bowl game since 2020. "Coach Prime" has lost several key players who contributed to the team's success, including quarterback Shedeur Sanders and wide receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter. He will be challenged to lead a new roster to compete for the top spot in the Big 12.

One of the new stars in Colorado is Julian Lewis. As a freshman, he is looking to be Deion's new starting quarterback. Another player that "Coach Prime" will try to guide to play a key role is Dre'lon Miller. The wide receiver will try to replace Hunter as an important playmaker in his sophomore year.