C.J. Stroud or Bryce Young: Who Should be the Next Texans Quarterback?
By Evan Mead
What Would the Texans be Getting in C.J. Stroud?
The Houston Texans decided to go with the Davis Mills train this year, but in that, it probably means that they have confidence moving forward that if he doesn’t play well, they can get a top end quarterback in the draft. A guy they have been linked to heavily is C.J. Stroud.
C.J. Stroud really made a stand this past season as he took over the Ohio State quarterback job for Justin Fields. Which, quite frankly, were big shoes to fill.
Fields, the 1x BIG-10 champ at Ohio State, really did well in his one and only season there. Furthermore, his reputation as one of the best quarterbacks in college football got him drafted by the Chicago Bears two seasons ago now. Now it’s time for Stroud to take another step up and potentially lead Ohio State to the National Championship.
Looking at Stroud’s numbers over the course of last season, he was able to tally 4,435 yards, 44 touchdowns and only six interceptions. In that, he was also able to keep up a astounding 71.9 completion percentage. Within those stats, you’re told everything you need to know.
Player Breakdown
C.J. Stroud is an incredibly accurate quarterback who displays every tool it’ll take to get to the next level. I know that isn’t exactly a revolutionary statement- but it’s the best statement I got revolving his game.
Stroud is a very talented athlete, but more importantly, he is a very talented quarterback. He displays very inconsistent footwork, but when he has the time to drop back, he generally take a solid 3-to-5 step drop back.
When it comes to his accuracy, he is one of the best in college football. Against the best college athlete’s in the world, he was able to successfully put up a 71.9% completion percentage. In my eyes, that’s worth noting. Not to mention the fact that he only threw for six interceptions.
When displaying arm strength, he seems to float the ball more than really letting it rip. That isn’t to say that it doesn’t work- but his arm strength reminds me a lot like former Ohio State quarterback- Dwayne Haskins.
Haskins was able to push the ball downfield, but he didn’t have the zip. Same goes for Stroud. Now, I will say that he may have the arm strength to really let it go, but I didn’t see much of it on film.