The Sapp legacy is alive and thriving on the gridiron and beyond. While Warren Sapp takes on the Buffs’ pass rush coordinator role, his daughter is making her own mark. Since fall 2022, Mercedes Sapp has served as USF’s Student-Athlete Enhancement Coordinator, leaving an impact both on and off the field. On April 4, she made a major NIL announcement with Embarc Collective, Tampa’s launchpad for Florida’s top startup talent, signing off with her signature line: “Peace, love, Go Bulls.”
But before USF, Mercedes spent her final year of soccer at UNF, graduating in 2021. And now, as her alma mater honored her career with a special tribute, she couldn’t hide her emotions.
On September 22, Mercedes Sapp opened up about her journey at UNF. The university was celebrating its 30th season anniversary for women’s soccer, and Mercedes couldn’t help but get reflective. “Such a beautiful, well-put-together event to recognize all of the amazing former and current players who landed at UNF,” she said. But the emotions ran even deeper in a featured video clip, showcasing Mercedes’ days with the team.
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“All of the memories of my soccer journey came flooding back — practices, games, travel, and everything in between,” she shared. And then came the heartfelt takeaway, stating, “I made this reel as a reminder to all student-athletes: enjoy the ride. It’ll be gone in a blink of an eye 😭.” Honestly, her words captured nostalgia and pride. Yet, the feelings didn’t end there.
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Mercedes also took a moment to celebrate her personal honors. “I am so humbled and grateful to be recognized on the All Decade Team (2016-2024) and to be named on the 30th Anniversary Stand-Out Team,” she shared. And then came the heartfelt message of gratitude. “This recognition is dedicated to everyone who helped me along the way. Thanks for always believing in the kid.” And here’s the reason to believe.
Mercedes Sapp’s graduate season at UNF in Fall 2021 was nothing short of dominant. She started all 16 matches, anchoring the defense for 1,482 minutes. And her presence was unshakable, stacking up 67 saves and finishing with a 0.79 goals-against average, one of the best in school history, also receiving ASUN Defensive Player of the Week. Given all that, it’s safe to say she graduated as the standard, leaving UNF with the best career goals-against average (0.71) and save percentage (.823) in school history.
Now, while his daughter reflects on the past, Warren Sapp is living life on his own terms.
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Warren Sapp’s bold declaration
The Buffs turned heads when they added NFL legend Warren Sapp to their defensive coaching staff. Now Sapp is stepping into his 2nd season with the Buffs. His arrival created instant buzz, bringing excitement and giving the program a huge credibility boost in recruiting. But heading into the 2025 season, Colorado faces a major rebuild.
As the Buffs said goodbye to stars like Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders, along with key pieces Jimmy Horn Jr., Will Sheppard, and Shilo Sanders. But despite the roster turnover, Sapp is fully committed. “I never thought I wanted this job,” he admitted. “Now I’m addicted.” So, with his energy and NFL pedigree, he’s ready to elevate a defense now carrying a heavier burden this season. And his NFL resume supports it.
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In 198 NFL games, Sapp racked up 569 tackles and 19 forced fumbles. To top it off, he recorded 12 recoveries and 29 passes defended. Now, Sapp’s passion and know-how could be the key to turning potential into results for Colorado.
