Denzel Washington Delivers Powerful Sermon to Colorado Football Team, Inspiring with Personal Story of Redemption
In a remarkable moment for the University of Colorado Buffaloes football team, legendary actor Denzel Washington made a virtual appearance to impart wisdom and inspiration to the players. The celebrated thespian, recently ordained as a minister, connected with the team via video conference, offering a profound and deeply personal message that resonated far beyond the gridiron. For over 30 minutes, Washington captivated the Buffaloes, sharing anecdotes from his own life, struggles, and eventual triumphs, weaving a narrative that emphasized the power of potential, purpose, and faith.
The visit, orchestrated by head coach Deion Sanders, sought to provide a unique perspective and motivational boost as the team embarks on its spring practice. Sanders, known for his unconventional approach and ability to attract high-profile figures, introduced Washington as "the greatest actor ever," setting the stage for an impactful session.
Washington’s address was far from a typical celebrity pep talk. He delved into his past, revealing a period of youthful indiscretion involving drug use in New York, a stark contrast to the image of the poised and successful actor he is today. He openly shared about facing disappointment and even resorting to alcohol after Academy Award nominations didn’t translate into wins, humanizing himself and demonstrating vulnerability to the young athletes.
At 70 years old, Washington’s life experience offered a wealth of lessons. He recounted a pivotal moment in his life: being told he would "travel the world and preach to millions of people" while sitting in his mother’s beauty parlor on March 27, 1975, after having "flunked out of college." He emphasized the significance of that prophecy, stating that his address to the Colorado team was an opportunity to "practice it" after almost 50 years.
Crucially, Washington made it clear that he wasn’t lecturing the players but sharing his own journey, establishing a connection built on authenticity and shared human experience. He declared, "I’m not preaching to you or at you, I’m sharing my experience with you.”
While acknowledging the acclaim he has received for various roles, he noted the surprising popularity of "The Equalizer" films, eliciting laughter from the team with his observation that audiences seem to enjoy "seeing me killing people." He quickly transitioned from this lighthearted moment to a discussion of real-life violence, recounting his exposure to crime and loss growing up. Washington conveyed the raw reality he faced, noting he “shot dope” at the age of 13 and sold drugs. He even shared a close call involving a needle in his arm at private school, attributing his escape to "God’s grace." He stated bluntly, “I ain’t no killer, but I grew up with killers. I’ve seen people killed. I was with a couple of them the night they got killed. That’s life.”
A core theme of Washington’s message was relatable to the student-athletes, emphasizing that he, too, had once been in their position, grappling with uncertainty and searching for direction. In an effort to connect with the players on their level, Washington directly asked which of them had C grades or worse. When one player raised his hand, Washington inquired if he was the team’s kicker. When the player confirmed he was not, Washington candidly revealed his own academic struggles, saying “I had C grades or less, because I didn’t have direction.” He then emphasized that it was acceptable not to have one’s entire future mapped out at such a young age, stating, “You do not have to know when you’re 17, 18, 19 years old, what you’re going to do the rest of your life. It’s OK.”
He reminisced about his own college years at Fordham University, initially exploring biology and journalism before finding his passion in drama. This personal narrative demonstrated that even the most successful individuals often experience periods of exploration and uncertainty, reinforcing the message that the players didn’t need to have all the answers right now.
The conversation wasn’t without its lighter moments. At one point, Washington inquired about the team’s star player and quarterback, apparently unaware that Shedeur Sanders, Deion Sanders’ son, had moved on to prepare for the NFL draft. When another quarterback stood up, Washington jokingly asked if he was Sanders’ son, resulting in laughter from the team. Coach Sanders clarified that his son had graduated. Washington laughed it off, pointing out the interaction was proof he can’t keep up with everyone’s lives, even if they are famous.
Beyond the personal anecdotes, Washington offered profound advice on dealing with success and failure. He spoke about his nine Academy Award nominations and the bitterness he felt when he didn’t win, acknowledging his human fallibility. He emphasized the importance of getting the most out of one’s potential, both on and off the field, reminding the players that "the cemeteries are filled with people who never lived up to their potential.” He urged them to "get everything you can out of your body, your mind and your spirit.”
When asked about his heroes growing up, Washington cited running backs Gale Sayers and Jim Brown, highlighting the influence of sports figures on his life. In response to a question from assistant coach Andre Hart about maintaining focus, Washington used the metaphor of rain and mud, stating that “When you pray for rain, you got to deal with the mud, too, but eventually good things grow out of that mud.”
Washington also touched upon the dangers of fame and wealth, cautioning against relying on external validation for happiness. He addressed the pervasive "look at me" culture of social media, emphasizing that he abstains from platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Instead, he encouraged the players to focus on their inherent potential and purpose, stating, “One thing we have in common, you and I, is potential. One thing we have in common is purpose. One thing we … all have in common is a platform. And one thing we all have in common is God-given ability. Use it. Share it. Appreciate it. Understand it. You don’t have to know now, but understand you are put on this planet for a purpose, each and every one of you.”
He also reminded them that critics would try to bring them down when they succeed, observing that “This world is not gonna love you. They’re not gonna cheer for your. They hate your coach, He’s one of the greatest, but they hate him. Some do. There’s always gonna be haters. That doesn’t matter in your community, in your house, in your dorm, on the field. But you all have potential to be great men.”
The session concluded with Washington issuing a playful challenge to the team. "If y’all don’t send me a ticket to the national championship when you get there, then don’t… ever go to none of my movies ever again," he declared, expressing his confidence in their potential. He ended on a note of encouragement, saying “Because I know you’re gonna be there. Remember that. Denzel Washington said it. You are going to the national championship. Now some of you might not go with this team, but you are going to the national championship in life anyway.”
The Colorado Buffaloes, who finished with a 9-4 record last season, will conclude spring practice with their annual spring game on April 19 and begin their season against Georgia Tech on August 29. Washington’s powerful message serves as a lasting reminder of the importance of purpose, perseverance, and the pursuit of one’s full potential, both on the field and in life.
