Background

NAME: CJ Stroud

POSITION: QB

SCHOOL: Ohio State

HEIGHT: 6’3″

WEIGHT: 218

CLASS: 3SO

HOMETOWN: Rancho Cucamonga, CA

HIGH SCHOOL: Rancho Cucamonga

DOB: 10/3/2001

GAMES WATCHED: Oregon, Minnesota, Rutgers

Career Stats

• 2020 (1 game): 1 rushing attempt for 48 yards and 1 TD.
• 2021 (12 games): 317/441 (71.9%) for 4435 yards, 44 TD, 6 INT, and a QB rating of 186.6. 32 rushing attempts for -20 yards.

Analysis

The Buckeyes signal caller is one of the best in the draft class. CJ Stroud really burst onto the scene this season after stepping into the shoes of former first round pick Justin Fields. Stroud stepped up in Fields’ absence and played at the level of a Heisman finalist. Stroud has prototypical size for the position at 6’3″, 218 lbs, with mobility that gives him the ability to avoid pressure. Attached to that frame is an arm that has the ability to make every NFL level throw needed and then some. Stroud doesn’t just rely on his physical tools to excel, Stroud’s mechanics are like a machine. He has a tight and quick release which is in sync with his lower half to help drive the ball into tight windows. Stroud’s football IQ is incredible, you can see Stroud making the reads quickly and decisively which shows he has a adept understanding of the offense he plays within. Stroud brings the complete package to the quarterback position and teams should be salivating over him as a prospect, and he could easily be the first quarterback taken off the board whenever he declares for the draft.

Tier: Round 1