One of the top prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft class is Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud. He is widely expected to be one of the top picks in the draft and has been a consensus top-two prospect along with Alabama quarterback Bryce Young.
There is a good chance that C.J. Stroud hears his name announced within the first two or three picks and with good reason. He is regarded as the best pocket passer in this year’s draft class and what he was able to accomplish against the Georgia Bulldogs in the College Football Playoff was impressive stuff.
In 2022, C.J. Stroud was a Heisman finalist and won the Big 10 Conference Player of the Year. He led FBS in pass efficiency with 177.7, completing 66.3 percent of his passes for 3,688 yards and 41 touchdowns. That was actually a drop-off from his first season as the Buckeyes’ starter, as he had a pass efficiency rating of 186.6, completing 71.9 percent of his passes for 4,435 yards and 44 touchdowns. In both seasons, he threw only six interceptions.
The most important thing that C.J. Stroud did against the Bulldogs in the CFP was extending and make plays outside of the pocket. That was considered a weakness for him at times, but at the next level, he will need to improvise more to find success. If he can do it against Georgia’s defense loaded with professionals, he can do it at the next level.
Leading up to the pre-draft process, players are always receiving comparisons. The one for C.J. Stroud is interesting as Lance Zierlein of NFL.com believes his NFL comparison is Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions.
Whoever ends up with C.J. Stroud on their team would probably be happy if he has the same kind of career that Goff has had. Goff was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. He has a record of 54-45-1 in his career with three Pro Bowl appearances and one trip to the Super Bowl.
While not the flashiest player, Goff has proven to be a capable starter with some upside when in the right system. Sean McVay was able to get the most out of him for a few seasons with the Rams and the Lions are currently doing the same as he looks to be locked in as their starter.
Fit and patience are imperative when it comes to quarterback prospects. Even the most talented players will flounder if not in the right situations. C.J. Stroud would be so fortunate to land in spots that will help bring the most out of him as Goff has been lucky enough to have had.
