ATLANTA, Ga. – Earlier this week, the Georgia Excessive College Affiliation voted sure on NIL offers for highschool student-athletes.
The ruling will change the sport for a handful of highschool athletes within the state of Georgia, however perhaps none greater than Carrollton quarterback Julian “Ju Ju” Lewis.
He’s the top-ranked 2026 prospect, dedicated to the College of Southern California, and up till this week- he’s been unable to capitalize on identify, picture and likeness offers.
However that’s not the case.
“How are we going to make this cash? And that’s why we wished NILs to get handed, however I’m simply attempting to maintain the primary factor, the primary factor,” Lewis stated.
That predominant factor stays a confirmed cliche: religion, household and soccer.
Sadly, this isn’t small-town soccer anymore and Lewis is just not an age-old recruit. Instances are very completely different.
“We are able to say that I’m a child and do all that stuff, however when NIL’s obtained handed…it turns right into a job,” Lewis elaborated. “It obtained severe when the recruitment and stuff began and now with cash concerned…it’s obtained to a degree the place you may change your entire household’s life.”
The quarterback has grown loads since his freshman season. Lewis advised Atlanta Information First sports activities director Baillie Burmaster he seems like he was forcing issues a bit final season. Nonetheless, he’s improved in how he reads defenses higher and is extra assured in being a vocal chief. And it reveals.
The professional-style quarterback has over 1,000 passing yards already this season with 18 touchdowns and 0 interceptions.
In a couple of years, Lewis will be a part of the Trojan household and Lincoln Riley’s air raid offense.
“Three Heisman trophy winners. Two first total picks, about to be a 3rd one. I imply, that’s why you may’t actually query my motives to select USC,” Lewis said.
Ju Ju doesn’t shrink back from the stress or stress of all of it. He’s 16 years outdated, a sophomore in faculty, and realistically needs to be nervous about his subsequent algebra check.
As a substitute, he’s the youngest soccer participant to be on the quilt of Sports activities Illustrated.
“I’m only a blessed particular person and I’m grateful for every little thing that is happening.”
Wildly sufficient, it’s just the start of his story.