Colorado’s football program has a clearer vision for its quarterback room heading into the 2026 season, and the centerpiece of that plan is redshirt freshman Julian Lewis.
The Athletic’s latest quarterback tiers place Lewis at No. 49 overall, situating him in tier four, a group the outlet describes as ‘stars of tomorrow’ and inexperienced signal‑callers with upside.
A Star of Tomorrow
That ranking not only highlights Lewis’s potential but also underscores the Buffaloes’ intent to develop a quarterback who can eventually anchor the offense.
Offensive coordinator Brennan Marion’s arrival is expected to accelerate Lewis’s growth, giving the youngster a fresh schematic foundation to build upon.
Behind Lewis, Utah transfer Isaac Wilson is slated to serve as the backup, a arrangement that adds depth while preserving the redshirt freshman’s primary role.
Conference Competition
The Athletic also ranks Lewis as the 12th‑best quarterback in the Big 12, a conference that boasts several emerging talents.
In that regional context, Oklahoma State’s Drew Mestemaker sits atop the conference at No. 6 nationally, while Arizona’s Noah Fifita follows at No. 10.
These comparisons illustrate both the competitive landscape and the opportunities that await Lewis as he navigates his sophomore campaign.