"Came as a brother and lifted me": Deion Sanders reveals Cowboys legend's impact on recovery process following cancer diagnosis

Pro Football Hall of Famers Deion Sanders and Michael Irvin have a very special bond. The two were teammates at the Dallas Cowboys and have carried their friendship into their post-playing careers.

In a video uploaded to Irvin's YouTube channel on Tuesday, Sanders thanked the former receiver for checking on him during his battle with cancer.

"I know you and I trust you," Sanders said. "You're not trying to prostitute my trial or my tribulation. Because when you came over to my house, you came as my brother. And you lifted me like you used to so often when we played together. So, it wasn't about the cameras. It was about the brother coming to see another brother to lift him up. And that's what you did."

Sanders is gearing up to continue his head coaching responsibilities with the Colorado Buffaloes in 2025. He signed a five-year $54 million contract extension in March.

Deion Sanders and his recent battle with cancer

NCAA Football: Big 12 Media Days - Source: Imagn

Sanders recently opened up about dealing with bladder cancer. The illness was described as being a "very high-grade, non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer." It was discovered after Sanders underwent a routine CT scan due to his history of blood clots in his legs.

After the discovery, Sanders began treatment. Although he didn't show symptoms, he did lose 25 pounds in the process. Ultimately, Sanders underwent surgery to have his bladder removed. In its place, he had a surgically constructed replacement bladder inserted, which was made from a section of his intestine.

Sanders has been deemed cured and has been thriving of late, doing interviews, participating in media days, and appearing to be in good spirits.

Coach Prime and Colorado will open their 2025 campaign against Georgia Tech on Aug. 29.