Julian “JuJu” Lewis arrived at Colorado knowing he’s competing with Kaydon Salter for the starting quarterback position after Shedeur Sanders’ departure. Coach Deion Sanders made the competition clear from day one.
The freshman from Carrollton came prepared for the challenge.
“Coach Prime runs this like an NFL team. Plus every program in college football is always going to try and get better and have depth at every position. You can’t even prepare for the season without enough QBs on the roster,” Lewis told USA Today Sports.
Lewis embraced the opportunity to compete for the starting job despite the pressure.
“I’ve been competing for QB jobs since I was 7,” Lewis said. He competed for starting roles in youth football and again at Carrollton.
“I’m not the kid who was ever handed jobs. My story is different. People just see the results and assume I’ve had some easy path. Other guys’ dads coached teams, and they were automatically the QB. My dad took me to the hardest coaches and toughest programs, and I always had to earn it. Anything different and this wouldn’t be my story.”
Lewis chose Colorado specifically for the competition and coaching.
“CU is about development and competition. The only thing I was looking for as a recruit was to be coached by great coaches and have an opportunity to compete as a freshman.”
Lewis winning the starting job wouldn’t surprise anyone given his competitive background.
Even if he doesn’t start immediately, Sanders will likely give Lewis playing time during the season. This would help Sanders evaluate the freshman’s strengths and weaknesses for future development.
