Continuing the Ohio State Quarterback line is C.J. Stroud. With a solid frame, big arm, and lots of experience, there has to be potential. The tape brings up major questions that many of the super fans tend to blatantly ignore. There are reasons to see the hype with Stroud, however, so let's see if the hype is worth it.
Biography
Name: C.J. Stroud
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6'3
Weight: 218
Age: 21
Class: Junior
School: Ohio State
For those of you who are new to the 'In a Nutshell' series, this is a summarized scouting report to give you everything you need to know "in a nutshell."
The Good
Stroud has phenomenal arm strength. The zip is there and the range is undeniable. He is also young, leaving room for growth. Along with Bryce Young, Stroud features top-end mechanics and timing. The high-level throws are spectacular, too, so there is a lot to like.
The Bad
Stroud is not very athletic nor is he consistent. Many will blame a slow start, but watch the Penn State game, and it will be obvious that the tape is far from perfect. Ball placement is extremely spotty as well. Thank (insert higher power) that he had an incredible receiving corps.
The Ugly?
The Penn State game is enough to explain this category.
Overall
Stroud has a solid frame, arm, and ceiling to the point that he can certainly be a franchise quarterback. The negatives cannot be ignored, however. Inconsistencies with ball placement (especially with how poor the negative balls were) will cost Stroud in the NFL.
Grading Scale: (Average: 5/10)
Arm Strength: 12.5/15
Decision Making/ Progression: 15/20
Accuracy: 7/10
Ball Placement: 6/10
Athleticism: 5.5/10
On the move/ Out of structure: 6/10
Mechanics: 4.75/5
Timing: 4.5/5
Pocket Presence: 4/5
Injury: 4/5
Mentality: 4/5
Draft Grade: 73.25
Draft Projection: Top 10
Big Board Rank: N/A
Shades of: On sale Ben Roethlisberger
Top Three Fits: Texans, Lions, Falcons