"I pray to God that he goes to a program that challenges him": Deion Sanders had heartfelt message for five-star recruit leaving Colorado

Colorado Buffaloes coach Deion Sanders had a message for Cormani McClain after the cornerback decided to enter the spring transfer portal. On Wednesday, Sanders shared his thoughts while speaking with Jake Schwanitz and Ryan Koenigsberg on "DNVR Buffs."

Sanders expressed his best wishes for McClain's future, emphasizing the importance of finding a program that fosters both challenge and accountability. Sanders believes Colorado couldn't fully provide these and while he wishes McClain success, feels he needs help to reach his potential:

"I pray to God that he goes to a program that challenges him as well as holds him accountable and develops him as a young man," Sanders said. "Unfortunately, we weren’t the program that could accomplish that."

Sanders sees McClain's transfer as a chance for the young athlete to thrive in a new environment. He acknowledged McClain's potential, and McClain was a five-star recruit, but mentioned the need for commitment to reach it.

"Go get it, man," Sanders said. "Because he has a tremendous amount of talent, but he has to want it."

Early on, McClain struggled to crack the starting lineup. In September, Sanders publicly challenged him to improve his focus and punctuality, as well as attend team meetings.

"Be on time for meetings. Show up to the darn meetings. Understand what we're doing as a scheme. Want to play this game. Desire to play this game. Desire to be the best in his game."

McClain finished the season with a respectable 13 tackles and 2 pass breakups. In November, Deion Sanders praised his dedication and growing understanding of the team's expectations.

Deion Sanders faces transfer portal test with Colorado

The Colorado Buffaloes suffered a setback with Savion Washington and Cormani McClain entering the transfer portal. This comes after a December signing period that was fueled by Deion Sanders' transfer-heavy approach.

In response, a video clip emerged of Sanders addressing his players regarding the temptations of the portal. He acknowledged the allure of a new start, framing it as "Portal Day.”

“You know what the day is? PORTAL DAY. It’s PORTAL DAY. If anybody want to jump, jump. If anybody want to ride, ride. What y’all want to do? What y’all want to do? Let’s ride. Break it down on this group."

It will be interesting to see if the Buffaloes can elevate their game in the upcoming season and just how high their ceiling really is.