Ex-Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders didn't get degree, contrary to reports

The University of Colorado ’s official social media accounts recently showed former Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders attending the school’s May 2 graduation ceremony in Boulder and said he was “ securing his degree . ” But the school confirmed to USA TODAY Sports on May 14 that Sanders has not obtained his degree yet. Sanders, son of Colorado coach Deion Sanders , instead participated in the ceremony before his actual graduation, which students sometimes do if they’re on track to graduate but still need to complete coursework .

Colorado athletics issued a statement to USA TODAY Sports that said it was “thrilled that Shedeur Sanders came back to Boulder to celebrate commencement with his fellow students. ” “Shedeur completed the requisite number of credits to participate in the spring commencement ceremony on May 2, which is an opportunity available to all CU students who similarly qualify,” the statement said. Colorado athletics spokesman Steve Hurlbert confirmed this means he has not gotten his degree yet.

“This is extremely common, not just for student-athletes but for many students who want to be a part of the spring commencement ceremony but who might be finishing their courseload in the summer or even following fall,” Hurlbert said. It’s not clear when Shedeur Sanders plans to actually graduate. He left campus last year, when he was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round of the NFL draft.

‘Graduation’ posts led to widespread coverage Shedeur posted a photo of his cap and gown from his father’s office that day, plus another photo from the ceremony . These posts, combined with the university’s social media posts, led to widespread attention online, including numerous news articles that stated he graduated and obtained his degree , including on ESPN and Fox News . This happened last year, too, when Colorado’s social media accounts showed Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter at the graduation ceremony at Folsom Field and said he “ GOT THAT DEGREE!