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Recruited by Deion Sanders, Julian Lewis Sends Clear Message to Colorado Prospects

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jul 10, 2025 12:02 PM ET

Julian Lewis, the Colorado Buffaloes' true freshman quarterback, is already planting seeds for future classes following his dramatic commitment flip from the USC Trojans to an early arrival at Colorado.

Speaking on the DNVR Buffs Podcast at Big 12 Media Days on Wednesday, Lewis delivered a recruiting pitch laced with pride and promise: “I tell guys everywhere. If you want a pro-style coaching staff, this is the place to come. I think we have more Hall of Famers than I’ve ever seen in person in my life. More former NFL coaches, former NFL players. So [if] y’all want to come be coached by the best and try to try to compete for a Big 12 championship. Y’all come on.”

With Shedeur Sanders departing for the NFL, head coach Deion Sanders, known as Coach Prime, knew the program would have a starting quarterback vacancy entering this season.

Lewis decommitted from USC and pledged to Colorado in late November. The move sent shockwaves because not only was he a top-five quarterback in the 2026 ESPN 300, but he reclassified to the 2025 class to join the Buffs earlier than expected.

Lewis also highlighted the role his father played in the decision, another recruiting moment in itself: “[Coach Prime] and my dad had a good connection. They sat down and talked. I think he flipped my dad’s mind probably on Day 1. ... Coach Prime always keeps it a hundred with everybody.”

This exchange showcased Deion Sanders’ persuasive power, not just with recruits, but with families.

The message Lewis brings to campus is twofold: a belief in the program and a clear vision. His appeal is grounded in the credibility of an NFL-stacked staff and the tangible success visible in Boulder last season. He’s leveraging that platform to make a bold statement to future Colorado prospects about how the Buffaloes can deliver elite development.

Sanders sealed the deal on a high-level quarterback to succeed his son, and Lewis is hoping to do the rest. Colorado has yet to name a starting quarterback, but that hasn't stopped Lewis from using his platform at Big 12 Media Days to challenge peers to join the program to build the future of Colorado football, one elite recruit at a time.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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