C.J. Stroud  |  Ohio State 6’3” 214 lbs.  |  10/03/2001 (21)

C.J. Stroud was drafted by the Houston Texans, becoming the second Quarterback and second overall player in the 2023 NFL Draft.

COLLEGE PRODUCTION

Following Justin Fields’ footsteps at Ohio State, Stroud put together two elite seasons in 2021 and 2022. He was named the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year twice, as he produced 8,123 passing yards and 85 touchdowns, while only giving up 12 interceptions in 25 career games played. He became the first quarterback in Big Ten history to post back-to-back 40-plus passing touchdown seasons. Because of those accolades, Stroud was a two-time Heisman Finalist. He led the Buckeyes to a 22-4 record during his tenure, winning the Rose Bowl in 2021 and coming up short to Georgia in the Peach Bowl this past season. Although his team suffered a defeat in the Peach Bowl, Stroud put together one of the best games of his collegiate career, completing 67.6 percent of his passes and throwing for 348 yards and four touchdowns. 

FILM

STRENGTHS

His accuracy is impeccable, as he finished his Ohio State career completing 69.3 percent of his passes. On top of that, his production background is off the charts. Doesn’t hesitate to attack the defense with his arm, as he showcases tremendous passing-game instincts. Great arm strength and deep-ball accuracy. Doesn’t run out of the pocket much, but seems to do so at the right times, often surprising the defense with his speed and great decision-making skills. Very mature as a game manager. Also has the ideal size and frame that NFL teams want from a true pocket passer. 

WEAKNESSES 

Can be a little too dependent relying on his primary receiver. Most of his interceptions came when he refused to go through his progressions. At times, Stroud neglects the safety help and trusts his receivers too much. Needs to work on squaring up his frame when throwing on the run. Although he usually makes the correct decision, those decisions sometimes are overthought, as his occasional tardiness typically leads to a mistake. Can be a little too hesitant to rely on his legs to move around the pocket and extend the play. 

ATHLETIC TESTING

At the NFL combine, Stroud measured in at 6’3” and 214 lbs. Which equates to a BMI of 26.8. He neglected to partake in any strength or speed drills at the combine but he did post an unofficial 4.79 40-yard dash time at his Pro Day. That was good enough to land him in the 64th percentile at his position. 

Stroud doesn’t show any elite athletic traits, but he’s everything you would want from a rookie quarterback entering the league. He finished his collegiate career with a QBR of 89.7 (96th percentile), a college yards per attempt of 9.8 (93rd percentile), and a breakout age of 19.9 (71st percentile). 

DRAFT ANALYSIS 

Rapid Reaction to Draft Capital: Great

Rapid Reaction to Landing Spot: Great

Stroud was selected with the second-overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft by the Texans. 

Following Bryce Young to the Panthers, Stroud comes in as the second pick to overtake starting signal-caller duties to Davis Mills. He doesn’t have any true dynamic pass-catchers surrounding him, so it may be a learning process to start out his career. He will be battle-tested right away, but he has all the tools to become a consistent starter for many years to come. 

FANTASY INSIGHTS

Although Young’s situation may look a little better on paper right now, Stroud may have a higher ceiling. In Superflex leagues, Stroud should go top three. In single-quarterback leagues, he may slip to the middle-to-late part of the first round of your rookie drafts. But keep in mind, draft capital does matter, and we know that he will be given every opportunity on the field right away. 

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