On Thursday, four-star prospect Julian Lewis announced his commitment to the Colorado Buffaloes. He is likely to be the replacement for quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who is leaving for the NFL after this season.
Lewis is another example of how Deion Sanders, coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, is able to bring in talented recruits.
This is something he has become known for in the two seasons that he has been with the program. But, how does he do it?
Sanders sat down with CBS Colorado's Ronni Beam and spoke about what he looks out for when potential recruits visit the Buffaloes.
"We gotta see if they fit with us. Do they just wanna come here and talk about NIL, if so, I definitely don't want them. So many aspects are attractive. But some come on visits and harm themselves. "
During these visits, Deion Sanders wants to get to know these players. By understanding their temperament and how they respond to things as a person, Sanders can slowly work out if they have the personality for the team.
However, the player's further intentions are also a factor in this decision. Most of these relate to NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) deals and how the player can benefit from them. This is a common sight in any college football program these days and is only going to become the norm in the future.
Playing for the Colorado Buffaloes with Coach Prime himself means that the national spotlight is going to be on you. It will also mean that Deion Sanders Jr., who posts videos of behind-the-scenes footage of the Buffaloes online, will cover you.
This increased attention means that a good NIL deal is likely to be on the table. However, this may mean that some players will want to join Colorado not for the chance to improve as a player but for the money.
Deion Sanders does not want such kind of players on his team, and doing these kinds of things during the visit will only harm their standing with Coach Prime.
The effect Julian Lewis will have on Deion Sanders
This conversation on recruitment came as Lewis announced his commitment to the Buffaloes. This move will help Deion Sanders in the long run.
He has been paired heavily with a move away from Boulder this week, with most analysts saying that he will join the Dallas Cowboys and bring Shedeur Sanders with him. But the arrival of Julian Lewis as the natural successor to Shedeur Sanders gives Deion a reason to stay with the Buffaloes.
He will be able to work with the youngster for the whole four years and get him to bring success to the program. Coach Prime can also develop him into an NFL player. This alone may be enough to silence the rumors of Sanders' departure.
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