Hall of Famer Warren Sapp is stepping away from his role with the Colorado Buffaloes after two impactful seasons. According to sources close to the program, Sapp is moving on to explore new opportunities.
Colorado Athletics expressed gratitude for Sapp's dedication and contributions, acknowledging the positive influence he had on their student-athletes during his tenure.
Sapp's departure marks the second coaching change for the Buffaloes this week, just as they gear up for the start of spring practices. The team is set to kick off their first of 15 sessions on Monday.
Earlier this week, defensive coordinator and safeties coach Robert Livingston announced his exit to join the Denver Broncos. In response, CU head coach Deion Sanders has promoted Chris Marve, previously the linebackers coach, to the coordinator position.
Sapp joined the Buffaloes in 2024 as a graduate assistant, working with the defensive line under Sanders, a fellow Hall of Famer. His expertise quickly earned him a promotion to defensive pass rush coordinator.
A legendary figure in football, Sapp was an All-American at Miami in the early '90s and enjoyed a stellar 13-year NFL career. He was a key player in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Super Bowl victory, earned the title of NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1999, and was selected for seven Pro Bowls before his Hall of Fame induction in 2013.
Despite his illustrious playing career, coaching was a new venture for Sapp when he joined CU. He initially worked alongside Damione Lewis, who departed for Miami, and later with Domata Peko, who recently took a position with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In response to these changes, Sanders has promoted Dante’ Carter, a former graduate assistant, to the role of defensive line coach. Carter's elevation reflects the Buffaloes' commitment to fostering talent from within their ranks.
As the Buffaloes transition into this new chapter, the impact of Sapp's tenure will undoubtedly be felt, both on and off the field.