Julian Lewis Opens Up On Why NIL Won’t Define His Colorado Legacy

Julian Lewis Opens Up On Why NIL Won’t Define His Colorado Legacy originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

At just 17 years old, Julian Lewis already has a million-dollar NIL valuation, a high-profile flip from USC to Colorado, and the weight of Buff Nation’s future resting on his shoulders. But in his recent interview with USA Today, Lewis made one thing crystal clear: he came to Colorado to win football games, not Instagram followers.

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In an era where high school athletes are cashing checks before they’ve taken a college snap, Lewis, reclassified from the 2026 class to arrive early in Boulder, seems focused on more than money.

“Football is my priority,” Lewis told USA Today’s Brent Schrotenboer. “I have a responsibility to myself, my teammates, and my university to become the best player that I can be.”

Lewis’ perspective is refreshingly grounded, and it’s likely a product of both his upbringing and his support system. He credits his father and team for managing his off-field business affairs, allowing him to focus on the game.

“He’s always reminding me that I have two jobs: QB and entrepreneur,” Lewis said.

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That kind of maturity, paired with raw talent, is exactly what head coach Deion Sanders is banking on. And make no mistake, despite having to compete with seasoned transfer Kaidon Salter for the starting job, Lewis’ presence in the quarterback room is already raising eyebrows. The fact that he holds a $1.1 million NIL valuation, second only to top-rated offensive lineman Jordan Seaton is proof that the spotlight is already on him, even if he hasn’t taken a college snap yet.

But Lewis isn’t using NIL to fuel ego or flash. His involvement with Fanstake, a platform that empowers fans to support athletes through NIL, showcases a player who understands the business side of college sports but refuses to let it distract from his main mission.

“There are thousands of great athletes who came before us who didn’t have the opportunities today,” Lewis said. “NIL has nothing to do with my college career; football and NIL are two very separate things.”

For Colorado fans still unsure of what to expect from the high school phenom turned early enrollee, Lewis’ message should serve as reassurance: he’s not here for fame. He’s here to compete.

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The Buffs’ quarterback competition in 2025 may be one of the program’s most anticipated in years. And whether Lewis starts Day 1 or takes the long route, one thing is certain: he’s already proving he’s more than just another five-star recruit.

For Buffaloes fans looking for the next leader, Julian Lewis might be the quiet storm worth betting on.

Related: Deion Sanders Cancels Speaking Engagement as Rumors Swirl

Related: Deion Sanders’ Son Says Fathers’ Return to Boulder Uncertain in Surprise Update

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 10, 2025, where it first appeared.