“They have a connectivity with brands” - Popular CFB analyst champions the idea of 5-star QB Julian Lewis joining Deion Sanders' Colorado

National recruiting analyst Phillip Dukes said the Colorado faithful coming out for 5-star QB Julian Lewis strikes him as real. On Monday's episode of "On3 Recruits," Dukes said he doesn't think there's a bigger star in high school recruiting than Julian Lewis, who is currently considering USC, Auburn and Colorado.

USC has a strong chance of retaining him due to his positive relationship with head coach Lincoln Riley. Auburn offers a competitive receiver group and proximity to home. Colorado made a strong impression on Lewis during his visit, with potential NIL opportunities through connections with Deion Sanders.

On the current situation of Lewis, On3 analyst Dukes said:

"To see a mirror image of Deion Sanders and his son, Shedeur, that speaks volumes to me when I hear the word real. Seeing how the Colorado faithful came out for Juju — love, that strikes me as real.

“When it comes to the NIL opportunities outside of the collective, there is no other marketer or branded coach in the country the way Deion Sanders is. And look at the deals that his children have. Look at the deals Travis Hunter has.

“They have a connectivity with brands that you're going to get with Colorado and Deion Sanders that you won't get everywhere else.”

Lewis completed his third official visit to Colorado this week and shared his insights, saying (as per SI):

"It was a cool weekend. I met a lot of good people while I was in Boulder and definitely noticed the things they did around town."

A top-tier quarterback like Lewis could be a game-changer for the Colorado Buffaloes, being the second-ranked quarterback in the 2025 class. If Lewis decides to don the black and gold, he would bring hope for the program to return to its glory days.

A Boulder cinema marquee displayed a message for Julian Lewis

Deion Sanders’ presence has turned Colorado into a prime destination for top recruits, including Julian “JuJu” Lewis. Lewis, a highly sought-after quarterback prospect from Carrollton, had an eventful visit to Boulder. Fans on campus passionately chanted “We want JuJu,” and local businesses even got in on the action by creating a “JuJu Burger.”

Lewis explored the scenic campus against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains and the vibrant college-town life. He got support even from Colorado’s oldest fan, Miss Peggy.

Despite the warm welcome, Lewis remains committed to Lincoln Riley’s program at USC. The Trojans’ strong track record with college football quarterbacks gives them an edge in the race to sign Lewis.