Why does Shedeur Sanders wear an L? A look at Deion Sanders' unique rule book

When Deion Sanders took the helm at Colorado, he made it clear that he'd be shaking things up. During the Buffaloes’ season opener — a thrilling 45-42 win against the TCU Horned Frogs — some fans noticed unique patches on the players' jerseys.

Shedeur Sanders and DL Shane Cokes sported the "L" patch during the Colorado Buffaloes' season opener against TCU for their roles as "leaders."

Meanwhile, Jace Feely and Travis Hunter wore the "D," showing they were recognized as "dawgs." This system is part of Coach Prime's unconventional approach, where leadership and tenacity are recognized separately.

Instead of traditional captains, Coach Prime introduced "leaders" and "dawgs," marked with "L" and "D" patches, respectively.

Deion Sanders' unique rule book behind "leader" and "dawg"

According to Prime Time, who told FS1's "Undisputed" last season:

“I don’t believe in no captains, I believe in leaders and dawg. Every dawg ain’t a leader, and every leader ain’t a dawg!”

Last season, the Fox Sports Big Noon Kickoff team asked Coach Prime why some Colorado jerseys feature the letters D and L.

“You have a multitude of players that have tremendous leadership,” Sanders said. “They're not necessarily a dawg. Then you got a guy like Travis Hunter, a guy that's a dawg that may not always be a leader, but he's a leader and a dawg. Every dawg ain't a leader and every leader ain't a dawg.

“But, God, I had so many guys on the team come back to me and say, 'Coach, I'm going for that D. I want to be that dawg.'”

Deion Sanders' unique system has certainly made waves, similar to other traditions like Ohio State Buckeye stickers. While they reward players with stickers for outstanding plays, Sanders' method emphasizes distinct qualities.

Shedeur Sanders with the "L" batch had a standout season

Shedeur Sanders had a standout 2023 season, throwing for 3,230 yards and 27 touchdowns with only three interceptions. His QBR of 63.1 placed him 56th in the rankings, highlighting his pivotal role on the team.

Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders - Source: Imagn

Now, as he enters what could be his final college season under his father's guidance, some mock drafts have him pegged as a potential top-10 NFL pick.

As the Buffaloes continue to evolve under Deion Sanders’ leadership, fans are eager to see what the future holds, both for the team and for Shedeur Sanders, who wears an "L."