Deion Sanders drew a lot of national interest to the University of Colorado during his debut season as the Buffaloes’ football coach.

Last year, he received a $250,000 bonus for it.

In early December, a university document stated: “Sanders will receive an Employee Recognition Bonus for bringing national attention to the University and Athletics Department this season.”

In 2023, despite a challenging season with a 4-8 record and finishing last in the Pac-12, Colorado attracted significant viewership. Sanders and the Buffs averaged six million viewers per game, placing them third nationwide, just behind Alabama and Ohio State, according to the Action Network.

Out of the top 16 teams watched last season, only Colorado ended with more losses than wins.

Sanders played a big role in boosting the university’s media exposure value nearly fourfold during his first season in Boulder.

From July 31 to Nov. 27, 2023, Colorado received about $343 million in free media coverage, up from $87 million in the same period in 2022, according to data from the university’s media-tracking service, Cision.

The University of Colorado announced last week that Athletic Director Rick George awarded Coach Prime a special bonus for his significant contributions to the football program, Athletic Department, and university during his first season.

Sanders got an extra $250,000 on top of his $5.5 million salary for 2023.

Both the University of Colorado and the Big 12 Conference are excited to have Sanders in Boulder.

Oklahoma State’s Mike Gundy, the Big 12’s longest-serving head football coach, joined a few others in praising Sanders in Las Vegas earlier this month.

“Gundy mentioned at Big 12 football media days that Sanders adds value to our league by attracting more fans and attention. It’s crucial for us to have viewership and for people to enjoy watching our teams play.”

“I’m excited to have him join our league. Having Colorado back means more competition, which is always enjoyable. I can’t wait to see how competitive he is—it should be a lot of fun!”

Utah coach Kyle Whittingham mentioned at Big 12 football media days that Sanders has “really energized things in Boulder.”

“Sanders really boosted Colorado football,” remarked Whittingham, gearing up for his 20th season coaching the Utes.

Colorado starts the 2024 season with a game against North Dakota State on Thursday, Aug. 29.