2023 mock NFL Draft 2.0: Fallout from free agency wave and NFL Combine
C.J. Stroud. 2. player. 812. . Quarterback. Buckeyes
On the clock: NFL Draft Pick No. 2: Houston Texans – C.J. Stroud, Quarterback, Ohio State
Mock Draft 1.0 – Bryce Young, Quarterback, Alabama
The Houston Texans did what all stupid rebuilding teams do, and win meaningless late games to knock themselves from the No. 1 pick.
Sound like an overreaction? Last time that happened, it was the difference between the New York Jets getting Trevor Lawrence and instead getting Zach Wilson, and who are now frantically trying to close a big deal to get Aaron Rodgers from Green Bay.
So yes, it can mean quite a bit. To say the least. Maybe the Texans prefer Stroud to Bryce Young and it’s a moot point, but they won’t get the choice.
Stroud threw for 3,688 yards, 41 touchdowns and six interceptions for the season with Ohio State as the team made it to the college playoff. Stroud is also an excellent scrambler and showed he could make plenty of plays with his legs, too.
Stroud showed particular mettle late in the season to show teams his ability as a leader who can make splash plays. Young is certainly the better improviser of the two, but Stroud is no slouch in that area.
C.J. Stroud throwing dots at his Pro Day🎯
— PFF College (@PFF_College) March 22, 2023
pic.twitter.com/SOMUqRUpcu
Similar to Young, Stroud really impressed at his Pro Day and confirmed he has all the intangibles to be a franchise quarterback at the next level. The Houston Texans at the very least can be happy with whoever is left for them.
Improviser vs. Prototype. The Young vs. Stroud debate is going to rage on until the first name is called in Round 1.