Top 2026 recruit Julian Lewis reclassifies to 2025
Quarterback Julian Lewis, the No. 1 overall player in the 2026 recruiting cycle, is reclassifying to the 2025 class.
"Since I was 7 years old, one of my goals has been to play Division I football," Lewis told ESPN's Pete Thamel. "Through hard work and sacrifice that goal has become a reality. I have been blessed to have two good seasons under Coach Joey King and I have confidence that after this coming season I will be ready to compete at the next level."
Lewis committed to USC last August but is still being pursued by several other programs. He's expected to be the top quarterback in the updated ESPN 300, vaulting ahead of five-star prospect Bryce Underwood, who committed to LSU earlier in January.
The 16-year-old's upcoming season will be his last at Carrollton High School in Georgia. King, who also coached Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence at Cartersville High School, believes Lewis can have a similar trajectory.
"He's in the same category as Trevor. The skill set and arm talent he has are definitely advanced for his age," King said.
Lewis passed for 3,094 yards, 48 touchdowns, and two interceptions while establishing a 140.1 quarterback rating during his sophomore campaign in 2023, according to MaxPreps. Lewis has racked up 7,212 yards and 96 TDs during his first two years of high school.
The Trojans are adding a blue-chip passer to their 2025 class. USC didn't sign any quarterbacks in its 2024 class but did land a commitment from UNLV transfer Jayden Maiava. Head coach Lincoln Riley continues to revamp the position after 2022 Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams declared for the NFL draft and Malachi Nelson transferred to Boise State.