Colorado football practice was opened to fans and media on Wednesday, but with strict limitations designed to prevent any information from being shared externally. Head coach Deion Sanders implemented a policy that prohibited all reporting, recording, note-taking, and the use of phones or cameras.
Attendees received an email detailing the restrictions, stating that the practice was for viewing purposes only and that nothing observed could be reported, published, posted, broadcast, or otherwise shared in any form. This extended to written notes, typed entries, or dictated information. The ban also included photography, videography, audio recording, sketching, or diagramming, with no live coverage or real-time updates permitted.
Fans were required to leave their cell phones with attendants at the gate before entering, with devices returned after the event. While some social media users expressed dissatisfaction with this requirement, the overall fan reaction was reportedly positive. Media members in attendance noted that they were able to watch practice but were forbidden from discussing any details.
According to the school's guidelines, any uncertainty about whether something was reportable meant it was not. Media outlets were instructed to contact the Athletic Communications Office before publishing anything related to the practice. Violations of these guidelines could lead to removal from the facility, revocation of credentials, and restriction of future access.
This level of secrecy is not unprecedented in college football. Some coaches are known for their stringent control over practice information. For example, former Alabama coach Nick Saban reportedly placed restrictions on nearby apartment residents who had views of the practice field.
The open practice at Colorado was intended to give fans a glimpse of the 2026 roster ahead of the upcoming season. However, the strict rules ensured that any observations made by those in attendance would remain confidential. Information about player performance or team strategies will not be publicly available from this event.