C.J. Stroud QB Ohio State: Scouting Report

Height: 6’3

Weight: 218

Overall

C.J. Stroud is a pure pocket passer in Ohio State’s pro-style offense. In his 3 seasons for the Buckeyes, he has played in 26 games, starting 25 of them. He has

Pass Game

In the pocket, Stroud shows excellent poise and has the footwork to keep his balance and make plays at a moment’s notice. He does a very good job of going through his reads and he is not afraid to dump it off to his checkdown player. His release is quick and fluid and he puts great touch on his intermediate throws over the middle of the field. His throws have good velocity giving him the ability to place the ball in the NFL level windows. He throws a beautiful deep ball allowing his receiver to out run his man and go up and get it. He had the luxury of playing behind a dominant o-line while at Ohio State giving him plenty of time in the pocket but he showed a lot of toughness in making throws with pressure in his face. He was also able to use his athleticism to escape the pocket and make accurate throws on the move. He can make very accurate throws when he is off-balanced as well.

Run Game

In the run game, Stroud was rarely used on designed runs but he has the athleticism to make plays with his legs. There were times on film where he had open running lanes from the pocket but chose to throw downfield instead of taking the easy yardage. If he uses his ability to run more in the NFL, he will keep defenses guessing and give him a much higher ceiling.

Last Word

Stroud has everything you want in a franchise quarterback in terms of size, poise in the pocket, accuracy downfield and overall athleticism. He can make any throw on the field and fit the ball into extremely tight windows while at Ohio State. He projects best in a balanced, spread offense where he can maneuver the ball all around the field and use his legs when needed. He is already a “win with” quarterback with his arm but if he continues to improve as a runner he can be a dominant “win because of” quarterback at the next level.

One-Liner: Stroud can make every throw on the field with his velocity and accuracy and with improvements as a runner he will be a dominant player in the NFL.

Grade: 7.1 (High End 3 Down Starter)

Games Watched: 2022 - Maryland, Michigan, Notre Dame

Team Fits: Las Vegas Raiders, Atlanta Falcons, Houston Texans