Julian Lewis redshirts, Buffs plan for future

Quarterback Julian Lewis checks the defense against Arizona State. (Photo by Christian Blanco/Sko Buffs Sports)

Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders announced Tuesday that quarterback Julian “JuJu” Lewis’ freshman campaign would be over. 

“I made a decision that Juju’s going to redshirt. That’s my decision,” Sanders said. “I want what’s best for the kid, what’s best for the family, what’s best for this wonderful university that’s given me the tremendous opportunity and given him an opportunity. For the program, it’s best for everyone.”

In four appearances and two starts for the Buffaloes, Lewis finished with 589 yards passing and four touchdowns without throwing an interception. The sample size was small, but it gives Colorado enough confidence that the quarterback will be the one for the future. 

The move will allow Lewis to retain an additional year of college eligibility, meaning he could play for the Buffs for another four years if he chose to.

“It’s not like he came to me saying, ‘Coach, I want to…’ He’s not built like that,” Sanders said. “That kid wants to play and compete, and I love him for it. That's on me.”

Lewis' final game of the season against Arizona State ended in a loss, showing his desire to keep playing and earn his first victory as a starter, but that will have to wait until 2026.

With Colorado's disappointing season, Sanders’ decision to pack up the freshman shows the Buffaloes are already looking ahead to next year. A core group of skill players and offensive linemen has given the team a foundation for the offseason.

Until then, Colorado will still have another opportunity to compete. Quarterback Kaidon Salter will be back in the driver’s seat for the final game of the season, on the road against the Kansas State Wildcats. Ryan Staub will serve as the backup, with Lewis still suiting up as the emergency quarterback. 

Tight end Zach Atkins, one of the core young players Sanders mentioned, remains confident in the offense's ability without Lewis.

"We switch quarterbacks a lot, so I'm used to everyone," Atkins said. "Like I said earlier in the year, whoever it is at quarterback, I have 100 percent faith in them."

Kickoff is set for 10:00 am MT (FS1).