Since the common draft era started in 1967, Ohio State has had 14 quarterbacks drafted. None have made the Pro Bowl, but Houston’s C.J. Stroud could become the first.
“Stories have been written about Ohio State quarterbacks that aren’t necessarily true, and for me, that’s fine,” the Texans rookie quarterback recently said, via ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime. “It’s my job to go out there and prove that wrong and try to prove we’re getting prepared the right way at Ohio State.”
The second overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft already looks like a seasoned veteran. Through nine games, Stroud is second in the league in passing yards (2,626), tied for ninth in passing TDs (15) and 10th in QBR (63.2).
Even though Ohio State QBs have a 91-128-1 record in the NFL, Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans pointed out how Stroud’s early success proves that a prospect’s school won’t determine if he becomes a star or bust.
“Every player is different. You get quarterbacks that come from all over the place. It’s not just about one school,” Ryans said, per Bien-Aime. “It is more about that player than it is about pinpointing a school.”
The Texans are 5-4 and have a strong chance to make their first playoff appearance since 2019. The New York Times simulator notes Houston has a 52 percent chance to make the postseason.
Although this is only his first season, the 22-year-old is a franchise cornerstone the team can continue to build around. Don’t be surprised if Stroud earns a Pro Bowl nod and Offensive Rookie of the Year. As of Friday, oddschecker gives him the best chance (-1600) to win the award.