Top Quarterback Recruit Julian Lewis Chooses Colorado Over USC

In a significant development within college football recruiting, five-star quarterback Julian Lewis committed to the University of Colorado. Lewis, who is ranked as the No. 2 recruit in the 2025 ESPN 300, announced his decision on ‘The Pat McAfee Show‘ last Thursday. This commitment is seen as a potential transformative moment for the Colorado Buffaloes and their head coach, Deion Sanders, often referred to by his nickname, Coach Prime.

Julian Lewis’ decision to join Colorado comes just days after he decommitted from the University of Southern California (USC). He will officially sign with Colorado once the early signing period opens on December 4, with plans to enroll in January. ‘I’m excited for the opportunity to get to work and compete,’ Lewis stated in an interview with ESPN. He went on to express his readiness to benefit from the guidance of Coach Sanders and offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur.

The 6-foot-1 passer from Carrollton, Georgia, was previously committed to USC before reclassifying to the 2025 recruiting cycle. His decommitment from USC, coupled with his sudden availability, elevated him to the top of the uncommitted prospects in the nation. Sources close to the situation indicate that Lewis’ interest in Colorado surged following his official visit to the program in June. He also visited for Colorado’s win over Cincinnati on October 26, which contributed to solidifying mutual interest.

Three main competitors had vied for Lewis’ commitment, including Georgia and Indiana. However, Colorado emerged as the frontrunner, especially with the prospect of early playing time, given that current quarterback Shedeur Sanders is expected to declare for the NFL draft after this season.

Colorado’s recruiting class for 2025, which now includes Lewis as its highest-ranked member, features ten additional commits, though none are yet among the ESPN 300. Despite initial struggles last season, Deion Sanders has led Colorado to a notable turnaround, with a current 8-2 record and a chance to enter the Big 12 championship game.

Lewis represents the highest-ranked commitment for the Colorado program since running back Darrell Scott in 2008. This marks a continuation of Coach Sanders’ success, following other five-star recruits like cornerback Cormani McClain and offensive tackle Cavin Boone.

With Lewis’ commitment, Colorado looks to maintain its momentum and create a late-cycle surge in recruiting elite prospects before the early signing period. The Buffaloes are also pursuing several top-100 recruits committed to other programs.