CJ Stroud is viewed as one of the top prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft, and it seems that one executive in the league believes he has a skill set that mirrors that of a finalist for this season’s MVP award.
The NFL Draft is just a couple of months away, and it has many franchises and their fanbases excited about the possibility of hope on the horizon. Quarterback is the most important position in the sport, at least five teams are in need of a new QB, and there are several signal callers projected to be taken in the first round.
One of those elite QB prospects is Ohio State Buckeyes star and 2022 Heisman Trophy finalist, CJ Stroud. Over the last six months, the 21-year-old has been viewed as the second-best QB in his class, just a smidge behind Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young. However, recent reports suggest that could be changing and Stroud may now be seen as the top player at his position on many 2023 NFL Draft boards.
Related: Bryce Young reportedly losing No. 1 pick momentum for particular reason
A new opinion from one NFL executive might give some insight into why some around the league are so high on CJ Stroud.
Executive compares NFL Draft prospect CJ Stroud to Joe Burrow
On Wednesday, ESPN NFL writer DJ Bien-Aime covered the offseason situation for the Houston Texans and their own need for a franchise QB heading to the NFL Draft. In speaking about the possible options in the annual event or free agency, Bien-Aime revealed an interesting nugget on the kind of player CJ Stroud projects to be.
- CJ Stroud stats (2022): 3,688 passing yards, 41 TD, 6 INT, 88.9 QBR
One NFC executive told the outlet that the Ohio State star reminded him of MVP finalist and Cincinnati Bengals superstar, Joe Burrow. “Not an elite arm but good enough, processes well. Not fast, but athletic and aware in the pocket,” the executive claimed.
Burrow took another step forward in his development in 2022-2023. Solidifying himself as one of the top three quarterbacks in the league as he helped guide the Bengals to a second straight trip to the AFC Championship game.
In our latest 2023 NFL Mock Draft, the Texans are projected to trade up to the top spot, from No. 2, and take Bryce Young. While the Las Vegas Raiders will move up to three and select CJ Stroud.