Why did Deion Sanders leave the San Francisco 49ers?

NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders left the San Francisco 49ers after a solitary season. Prime Time left the 49ers following the 1994 season. In 2020, Sanders told KNBR's Greg Papa and John Lund that he left the 49ers because they weren't interested in his services.

He said, "I was never offered a contract. Do you know that? You know how I found out I wasn't coming back? I was playing outfield for the Giants, and we had a day game, so after the game day, I went over to eat at a restaurant. I think preseason had begun, and I saw a dude on the TV with No. 21 on. 'Well, I guess it's over!'"

This happened despite Sanders having arguably the best season of his professional football career. Sanders had six interceptions, scored three touchdowns, and topped it all off by winning the Defensive Player of the Year award. He was instrumental in the 49ers' Super Bowl win that year, and his loss truly stung the San Francisco faithful.

Deion Sanders' career stat line

Deion Sanders was a tank anywhere he went and had the unique ability to affect the play on every level. Be it defense, offense, or special teams. Prime Deion Sanders was a draw at all levels of football.

The Atlanta Falcons drafted the NFL Hall of Famer in the first round of the 1989 NFL Draft. The Falcons are the only team that Sanders really entertained in pre-draft workouts. Sanders spent five full seasons with the Falcons. He totaled 24 interceptions during that span and did all that while playing in the MLB on the side.

Following his time with the Falcons, Sanders signed with the San Francisco 49ers, where he won his first Super Bowl title. Sanders was instrumental for the 49ers, with Florida State University alum pulling down six interceptions, 35 tackles, and earning a Defensive Player of the Year award for his efforts.

Following his time in San Francisco, Sanders moved to the Dallas Cowboys, where he had the most team success of his career. He racked up 14 interceptions, made over a hundred sacks, and won the Super Bowl again. He left the Cowboys in 2000 after racking four Pro Bowl nods in five years.

Sanders spent the rest of his career putting up impressive numbers on playoff contenders. He played for the Washington Redskins in 2000 before announcing his retirement. Only to come back and call out for the Ravens in the 2004 and 2005 seasons, showing that he still had it so close to his forties.

What is Deion Sanders up to now?

These days Deion Sanders spends his time coaching D1 programs at the college football level. Last season, Sanders led the Jacksonville Jaguars to an unbeaten year before they lost their bowl game.

This year, he is set to start his tenure as the head coach of the University of Colorado. Sanders will be tasked with getting the best out of the constant underachievers. But, if anyone is fit for the task, it's Coach Prime.