Leading one of the best teams in the nation, Ohio State’s quarterback CJ Stroud has had a phenomenal year. He’s currently in the running for the Heisman Trophy, as well as consideration for the top overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. In this 2023 NFL Draft scouting report, we’ll breakdown what makes CJ Stroud special, as well as look at a 40 time, injury history, full scouting report, and predict his NFL Draft future.
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CJ Stroud 40 Time
I have CJ Stroud poised to run a 4.75 40 time at the 2023 NFL Combine, should he declare for the NFL Draft. This 40 time is slightly above the league average for quarterbacks in the NFL. On game film, CJ Stroud is able to extend plays with runs outside of the pocket, and can make the occasional defender or two miss. Additionally, he’s also able to navigate the pocket with ease, even when it’s beginning to collapse.
CJ Stroud Injury History
Last season, CJ Stroud suffered a stressed rotator cuff, as well as a separated AC joint in his throwing shoulder. As a result, Stroud was held out of the game against Akron. However, following the missed game, CJ Stroud went on to throw for 1,300 yards and 15 touchdowns in his next four games.
CJ Stroud Scouting Report
Pros
- Excellent Release Speed And Throwing Mechanics
- Very Good Velocity On Short And Intermediate Throws
- Remains Poised And Calm In The Pocket
Cons
- Deep Ball Throws Are Less Accurate
- Tendency To Telegraph Simple Pitch-And-Catch Passes
- Adequate Ability To Make The Best Read On The Field
CJ Stroud is a two-year contributor at quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes. He was a consensus four-star recruiting prospect out of high school in California. One of the best quarterbacks in the nation this season and a contender for the Heisman Trophy. Stroud has solid height and weight for the quarterback position in the NFL. his predicted 40 time of 4.75 is slightly above the league average for the position.
Displays good accuracy when throwing on the run to either side of the field. Solid accuracy on throws into the flats. Stroud doesn’t panic in the pocket, but rather, hangs in there to complete passes downfield with defenders looming. Shows a good ability to progress through reads and scan the field quickly. Has a very good ability to throw with anticipation. Good velocity on short and intermediate throws outside the numbers from the opposite hash. Shows a good ability to use his body and pump fakes to manipulate defenders in coverage and open up throwing lanes. Overall, he displays very good release speed and throwing mechanics.
On the other hand, some intermediate throws have a tendency to nosedive. Deep throws outside the numbers have much lower accuracy on them, and are often times underthrown. Displays a tendency to telegraph some easy one-read throws. Finally, he has an adequate ability to make the best read on one side of the field.
CJ Stroud NFL Draft Projection
In my opinion, Ohio State’s CJ Stroud is the best quarterback in the 2023 NFL Draft class. His play, as well as his leadership both on and off the field, have the Buckeyes in contention for the College Football Playoff. Furthermore, his strengths on the field far outweigh his weaknesses.
While team needs still remain up in the air, there are several organizations in need of a franchise quarterback. If the Houston Texans are ready to move on from Davis Mills, CJ Stroud would be the perfect fit, especially if the Texans have the first overall pick. however, the Carolina Panthers also make a ton of sense.
Additionally, the Las Vegas Raiders have a potential out in the contract of QB Derek Carr. Considering that this season hasn’t gone according to plan for the Raiders, they could look towards rebuilding for the future.
