Deion Sanders' 'Super Talented' QB Julian Lewis Praised by Rival Coach Entering Colorado's Season

After being thrust into action as a true freshman last season, Colorado quarterback Julian Lewis is expected to have a better showing in 2026.

ESPN's Adam Rittenberg spoke to an opposing coach who said they're looking forward to seeing how Lewis performs this season.

"Super talented," said a coach set to face Lewis this season. "It's going to be really interesting to see how he's utilized in that offense. It's just unconventional in a lot of ways."

Lewis decommitted from USC and reclassified to the 2025 class to play for Deion Sanders at Colorado. He appeared in four games for the Buffaloes and threw for 589 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions, including a 299-yard, two-touchdown performance in his first career start.

"He's got a good skill set," a Big 12 coach said of Lewis. "It's tough when you're a freshman and people are coming after you."

Lewis will be leading a new scheme in Colorado following the hiring of new offensive coordinator Brennan Marion, who coached at Sacramento State in 2025 and led an offense that averaged 33.8 points per game.