6 quarterbacks the Minnesota Vikings could draft in 2023
By Luke Parrish
C.J. Stroud (Ohio State)
Just like Bryce Young and the Alabama quarterbacks before him, C.J. Stroud has a remarkable future ahead as an Ohio State quarterback ready to turn pro. After some early struggles with the Buckeyes, Stroud has blossomed into arguably the best draft prospect in the 2023 class.
He finished his first full season with 4,435 yards, 44 touchdowns, and just six interceptions to his credit. Once again, Ohio State is ready to thrust a superstar into the NFL and C.J. Stroud is capable of being one of the best young stars in the league.
Just like Young, Stroud will get some flack for being surrounded by NFL talent across his offense but he showed that he can survive without them. When his top-two targets opted out of the Rose Bowl in January, Stroud threw for 573 yards and six touchdowns against a talented Utah defense.
There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Stroud is going to be a long-time threat in the NFL with a cannon for an arm. He can handle the small throws and take what the defense gives him but when he needs to take his shots down the field, Stroud shows up.
Ohio State remained one of the top programs in the country with Stroud under center. He has the poise, touch, and accuracy to be a Heisman candidate once again in 2022 and that should keep in firmly in the mix to be the first overall selection in the draft.
The Vikings will have to go up to get him but C.J. Stroud is absolutely worth the investment.