Five Potential Landing Spots for C.J. Stroud in the NFL draft
With the 2023 NFL draft upon us, there are a great many rumors surrounding former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud potentially falling on draft night. Stroud led high-powered offenses in each of his two seasons starting and was a Heisman finalist in 2021 and 2022.
It appears most likely that former Alabama star Bryce Young will be the pick for the Panthers at No. 1. Beyond that, however, it’s unclear what will unfold.
There are plenty of teams in the top 10 that will be looking for quarterbacks. Plus, I also wouldn’t rule out a team trading up for Stroud if he falls, much like we saw with Justin Fields in the 2021 NFL draft.
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Here is a look at some of the potential landing spots for Stroud as we get ready for all the hoopla that comes with the circus that is the NFL draft.
Houston Texans cornerback Gareon Conley (22) breaks up a pass intended for Tennessee Titans wide receiver A.J. Brown (11) during the second quarter at NRG Stadium Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019 in Houston, Texas.
The Pick
No. 2 Overall (First Round)
Why it Makes Sense
If Young comes off the board at No. 1, Stroud has a strong case to be considered the best quarterback available for the Texans in this spot. They have an obvious need for a quarterback, so perhaps they kick off the DeMeco Ryans era with C.J. Stroud at quarterback.
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Parris Campbell (1) rushes the ball after making a long reception Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023, during a game against the Houston Texans at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
The Pick
No. 4 Overall (First Round)
Why it Makes Sense
The Colts are locked in on selecting a quarterback as this selection comes down to Stroud, Florida’s Anthony Richardson and Kentucky’s Will Levis. The Colts have struck out on many veteran quarterbacks in recent years, so the excitement in Indianapolis would be big for Stroud coming in as a rookie.
David Reginek-USA TODAY Sports
The Pick
No. 6 Overall (First Round)
Why it Makes Sense
Jared Goff is a solid quarterback and will likely be the starter next season regardless of if the Lions select a quarterback. However, Stroud could execute the Lions’ offense at a high level as well and would do so on a rookie deal giving the Lions more flexibility to build the rest of the roster. Of all of the teams on this list, this situation would be the best for Stroud long term.
Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
The Pick
No. 7 Overall (First Round)
Why it Makes Sense
The Raiders signed Jimmy Garoppolo in free agency, but they could still be in the market for a quarterback in this draft especially if Stroud falls to them. This would be another ideal landing spot for Stroud because there will not be a major rush for him to play if he’s not ready right away, plus the Raiders have a solid offensive line and receiving core.
April 28, 2022; Las Vegas, Nevada; USC wide receiver Drake London after being selected as the eighth overall pick to the Atlanta Falcons during the first round of the 2022 NFL draft at the NFL draft theater. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The Pick
No. 8 Overall (First Round)
Why it Makes Sense
Desmond Ridder showed some promise at the end of last season. However, Stroud is a much better prospect than Ridder. With a very strong run game in place, plus two contested catch targets in Drake London and Kyle Pitts, Atlanta is another good landing spot for Stroud.
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