Julian Medina has emerged as one of the most intriguing young quarterbacks in California, blending statistical production with a compelling recruiting journey that has put Norco High School back in the spotlight.

When Norco took the field this fall, much of the attention centered on the junior quarterback who has steadily grown into one of the state’s most promising prospects.

Medina’s rise has been marked by both eye-catching numbers, including over 3,000 passing yards this season. He has been named a finalist for the ALL-USA West Football Team, which also makes him a finalist for the national ALL-USA Football Team. Both of those teams will be announced later this month. Here is a complete list of the quarterback finalists.

This season, Medina displayed the kind of poise that suggests his best football is still ahead of him. He completed 65 percent of passes (199 of 306) for 3,165 yards and 35 touchdowns, with just six interceptions.

Julian Medina Season Highlights | Norco High School |Class of 2027 |
✅ 3,164 Passing Yards (Norco Single Season Passing yard Record)
✅ 35 Passing TDs
✅ 438 Rushing Yards | 3 Rushing TDs
Thankful for my teammates, coaches, and staff for making this season extremely special.… pic.twitter.com/VICpH75LZn

— Julian Medina (@Julianmedinaa7) November 13, 2025

His breakout performance came in late August against Colony, when he threw for 391 yards and six touchdowns on 23 completions, a stat line that instantly put him on recruiting radars. He also had 398 passing yards and six touchdowns against Centennial.

By November, his totals had climbed to more than 3,100 passing yards, ranking him 107th nationally, 20th in California and 11th in the Southern Section for passing production.

Medina’s career arc has been one of steady progression. As a sophomore, he showed flashes of brilliance but was still learning the nuances of the position. By his junior campaign, he had become the centerpiece of Norco’s offense, capable of stretching defenses vertically with his arm while also displaying mobility in the pocket.

Recruiting services have taken notice. 247Sports lists Medina with offers from Western Kentucky and Houston Christian, both extended before the start of his junior season, although things might heat up on the recruiting trail after his big season.

Medinas’ teammates and coaches describe him as a competitor who thrives in big moments.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY High School Sports Wire: Julian Medina from Norco named an ALL-USA Team finalist at QB