Masks of Many Colors

Did Deion Sanders wear more different-colored face masks than any other player in football history? Perhaps so, thanks to his nomadic existence in pro football.

Though a wife-beating loudmouthed braggart, he was perhaps the greatest cornerback in pro football history. Never a great or fierce tackler, he always went for the big play interception. You never heard about all the times he got beat or ran over or missed the tackle, but you always heard about it when he broke up the pass or interception.

FSU garnet, Falcons black, 49ers and Cowboys grey, Redskins yellow, and Ravens black. Just missed out on Falcons white and 49ers red. No telling what color mask he wore in high school.

I recently learned that Deion once tried to stage a late-season career comeback with the Raiders, but the stunt was blocked by the Chargers who claimed him off waivers.

Deion always looked good in a football uniform, white his long sleeves and white socks pulled up higher than the rest. 

I usually try to find Sports Illustrated cover shots of my subjects. Deion made at least three SI covers - once with the Falcons/Braves, once with the Cowboys, and once with the Reds. Two were posed and didn't show Deion playing in helmet and full uniform.

Sanders also started a baseball fashion trend with the Reds, wearing his sleeves cut short like Jackie Robinson’s. Or was it to honor Ted Kluszewski?