Why is Deion Sanders redshirting Julian Lewis?

Coach Sanders is redshirting Julian Lewis to preserve his college eligibility, allowing him four more seasons to play and develop with the team.

How many games can a player play and still redshirt?

Under current NCAA rules, players can participate in up to four games in a season and still retain a year of eligibility, essentially redshirting.

Who will start at quarterback for Colorado against Kansas State?

Veteran quarterback Kaidon Salter will start for Colorado against Kansas State in place of the redshirted Julian Lewis.

Home / Sports / Sanders redshirts QB Lewis: What's next for Colorado?

Sanders redshirts QB Lewis: What's next for Colorado?

26 Nov, 2025

•

Summary

QB Julian Lewis will redshirt, preserving eligibility for four more seasons.
Lewis has played four games, including two starts, this season.
Coach Sanders prioritizes player development and program future.

Sanders redshirts QB Lewis: What's next for Colorado?

Colorado football coach Deion Sanders has opted to redshirt freshman quarterback Julian "JuJu" Lewis, meaning Lewis will not play in the team's final game against Kansas State. This strategic decision ensures Lewis maintains four remaining seasons of college eligibility. Lewis has already participated in four games this season, including two starts, and demonstrated promising capabilities despite the team's struggles.

Sanders emphasized that this move is for the best interests of both the young quarterback and the university's future athletic endeavors. While Lewis expressed a desire to continue playing and competing, Sanders believes this path offers greater long-term advantages for his development. The team will rely on veteran quarterback Kaidon Salter for the upcoming game.

The decision also mitigates the risk of injury to Lewis, a concern given the team's offensive line performance and history of quarterback injuries. Lewis, a highly-touted recruit, finishes his freshman season with 589 passing yards and four touchdowns.