### Julian Lewis Commits to Colorado, Boosting Buffaloes' 2025 Prospects

In a major recruiting breakthrough for Colorado, five-star quarterback Julian Lewis has committed to the Buffaloes, bringing a potentially transformative talent to Deion Sanders' 2025 class. Lewis, ranked as the No. 2 recruit in the 2025 ESPN 300, made his announcement on "The Pat McAfee Show" and is expected to sign with the Buffaloes when the early signing period opens on December 4. He is set to join the program early in January.

Lewis, who hails from Carrollton, Georgia, had previously been committed to USC but decommitted just four days prior to his announcement. "I'm excited for the opportunity to get to work and compete," Lewis told ESPN, expressing confidence in Sanders and offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur to develop his skills further. The Buffaloes had emerged as favorites following his official visit in June and subsequent visits, including their win over Cincinnati on October 26.

The acquisition of Lewis is a significant victory for Colorado's recruiting efforts, especially with the likely departure of current quarterback Shadeur Sanders to the NFL after this season. Lewis’ early inclusion in the program provides a clear path for early playing time. Moreover, Lewis' commitment may propel a late surge in recruiting for Colorado as they target other high-profile prospects like London Merritt, Michael Carroll, and Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng.

Initially the top prospect for the Class of 2026, Lewis reclassified to 2025, maintaining his elite status and becoming the cornerstone of USC’s ninth-ranked recruiting class before his decommitment. Following his departure from USC, the Trojans secured a commitment from four-star quarterback Husan Longstreet.

Under Deion Sanders' leadership, Colorado has rebounded from a 4-8 season to tie for the top spot in the Big 12 standings with an 8-2 record. Lewis marks Sanders' highest-ranked recruit since flipping Travis Hunter to Jackson State in the Class of 2022 and joins Jordan Seaton and Cormani McClain as five-star prospects committed under Sanders.

Colorado’s recent rise to No. 16 in the College Football Playoff rankings sets a promising stage for Lewis and the future of the Buffaloes. With a crucial game against Kansas on Saturday, Colorado eyes a place in the Big 12 Championship Game, potentially capping off a season of remarkable turnaround under Sanders.