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Deion Sanders Preserves Freshman Julian Lewis’s Redshirt at Colorado

Source: Deion Sanders says QB Julian Lewis won't start Colorado's regular-season finale to preserve redshirt (2025-11-26)

Colorado Coach Deion Sanders has decided to sit Julian Lewis for the upcoming regular-season finale against Kansas State to preserve his redshirt status. Lewis, a highly-touted five-star recruit, has already appeared in four games this season, and participating in the final game would forfeit his chance to redshirt, which could benefit his long-term development and eligibility. Sanders emphasized that this decision prioritizes Lewis’s future, his family’s wishes, and the university’s strategic planning. Despite Lewis’s desire to compete, Sanders’s choice aligns with NCAA rules and the program’s broader goals. This move highlights the importance of player development and roster management in college football, especially as teams navigate the complexities of eligibility and player growth. Recent developments in college football include the NCAA’s recent rule adjustments allowing more flexibility in redshirt seasons, which can now be used for injury recovery or strategic development. The NCAA has also increased focus on athlete mental health, with programs now emphasizing holistic support for student-athletes. Colorado’s football program has been gaining national attention due to Sanders’s innovative coaching style and the team’s recent performance improvements. Additionally, the NCAA is exploring new policies to enhance athlete compensation and transfer portal transparency, reflecting a broader shift toward athlete rights and fair play. The decision to redshirt Lewis underscores the evolving landscape of college sports, where strategic player management is crucial for sustained success. As college football continues to grow in popularity, programs like Colorado are setting new standards for athlete development, compliance, and competitive excellence, making this season a pivotal chapter in NCAA history.

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