Deion Sanders’ Quarterback Conundrum: Julian Lewis vs. Kaidon Salter—Who Will Lead the Buffs?
Picture this: You’re Deion Sanders. You just led Colorado to a massive nine-win season, silencing doubters and proving that “Coach Prime” isn’t just a flashy name—he’s the real deal. But now, as the confetti settles, your superstar quarterback—and son—Shedeur Sanders is headed to the NFL.
A dream season turns into a nightmare question: Who steps up next?
Two names are at the forefront of this battle—Julian “Juju” Lewis, the phenom freshman with sky-high potential, and Kaidon Salter, the proven playmaker with college-level experience. Both quarterbacks bring something special to the table, and both are hungry for the spotlight.
For Deion Sanders, this is more than just picking a QB. This is about choosing the future of Colorado football.
Julian Lewis: The Future is Now?
Some call him the next big thing. Others call him the biggest risk. But if there’s one thing that’s undeniable, it’s that Julian Lewis isn’t lacking confidence.
“I’ve got more to prove to myself than anybody else. I’ve been called overrated since I was seven,” Lewis said.
And if there’s one thing Coach Prime loves, it’s a player with a chip on his shoulder.
At just 17 years old, Lewis arrives in Boulder with a jaw-dropping resume. Named Elite 11’s “Most Accurate Pocket Passer”, he boasts a rare combination of deadly precision, football IQ, and mobility.
He’s not Shedeur Sanders, but let’s be honest—he might be the most exciting quarterback Coach Prime can get his hands on.
However, he’s still unproven at the college level. Colorado’s offense isn’t a high school showcase—it’s a war zone. Can Lewis handle the pressure? Can he step in as a true freshman and thrive under the spotlight?
Kaidon Salter: The Experienced Playmaker
Then, there’s Kaidon Salter—a name that screams experience.
Unlike Lewis, Salter’s already been through the college football grind. In 2022, he started as a backup behind Johnathan Bennett at Liberty, biding his time and learning the system.
Fast forward to 2023, and Salter takes over as QB1. The result?
- A ridiculous 13-1 season.
- An offense that dominated week after week.
- A Fiesta Bowl showdown against Oregon.
Sure, Liberty’s schedule wasn’t filled with SEC giants, but winning is winning—and Salter knows how to do it.
“I came here to throw the ball,” Salter said. “Of course, I’m gonna use my legs when I have to. Everybody knows I have no problem with running. But I came here to throw.”
That’s exactly the kind of confidence you want in a veteran quarterback. He knows what it takes to win, he’s battle-tested, and he’s ready to lead.
So here’s the million-dollar question: If you’re Coach Prime, do you trust a freshman with limitless potential or a veteran with proven success?
The Sarkisian Strategy: Could Deion Use Both?
It’s no secret that quarterback battles can make or break a team. Just ask Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian, who turned a similar situation into a masterclass of strategic deployment.
Could Deion Sanders do the same?
Think about it:
- Julian Lewis brings elite accuracy and vision.
- Kaidon Salter brings experience and mobility.
What if Coach Prime doesn’t choose just one? What if he rotates them, keeps defenses guessing, and unleashes a dual-QB system that Colorado has never seen before?
Some might call it crazy. Others might call it genius. But when has Deion Sanders ever done things the “normal” way?
Who Will Win the QB1 Job?
The competition is fierce, and spring practice will be the proving ground.
Football analyst Jake Schwanitz pointed out:
“Juju has the most to gain. Because he could walk away after these 15 practices having changed the perception of him.”
Translation? Lewis has a chance to shock the world.
Meanwhile, Ryan Koenigsberg put it plainly:
“I think [Lewis] has a chance to show that that gap is not as wide as it should be.”
Kaidon Salter may have the upper hand on paper, but if Juju can go throw-for-throw with him in spring camp, all bets are off.
The truth is, this decision won’t be easy. Deion Sanders has built his entire career on making bold choices, and this might be one of the biggest of his coaching career.
So, who’s your pick? Do you go all-in on the freshman prodigy, or do you roll with the seasoned vet?
Either way, one thing is certain: Colorado’s next quarterback will shape the future of the program.
And knowing Coach Prime? Expect the unexpected.
