Best landing spots for CJ Stroud
By: James Parker
As we pass the halfway point of the 2022 NFL season, a number of teams seem to be struggling and already have an eye on the up-and-coming talent which may be available come the 2023 NFL draft. Teams will be assessing their current roster to see where changes could be made and that is especially true at quarterback.
One of the top prospects going into the 2023 NFL draft will be Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud who is being branded as the crown jewel of the 2023 class and a potential top pick. Stroud has demonstrated he is the full package, not only able to make plays and throws all over the gridiron but also a very able rushing game, using his athleticism to escape the pocket if needs be and either make plays on the move or stretch his legs for valuable rushing yards.
As often happens in the NFL, there may be several teams desperate to snap up a young talented quarterback in the draft, but it all boils down to which teams are in the position to have a chance of taking him.
Potential Landing Spots
Detroit Lions:
The Lions have been far from impressive this season, and with Jared Goff under center, you never know what is going to happen. Goff came into the league with so much potential and showed glimmers of that during his time at the Rams. But Goff also showed too much inconsistency, making bad decisions resulting in turnovers. Goff and fans hoped this would change following his trade to the Lions, but still, it's a pandoras box of what you will get each week with Goff still showing inconsistency. The Lions could be in the position to draft a new franchise quarterback to hopefully steady the ship and elevate those around him, could Stroud and the Lions be the perfect fit?
Houston Texans:
Davis Mills has performed admirably whilst taking over quarterback duties from the departed Watson (Traded to the Browns during the off-season). The main issue with the Texans is that Mills has had limited tools at his disposal, and has struggled to really make a significant impact during his time under center. The Texans need to bring in a number of positions to bolster their offense, but could they be tempted by the talented Stroud to compete for the number 1 spot with Mills?
Indianapolis Colts:
Following the week 7 defeat to the Titans, the Colts made the decision to sit veteran quarterback, Matt Ryan for the remainder of the season and play Sam Ehlinger instead. The unproven quarterback has a chance to make a name for himself during the second half of the season, but it may not be enough to deter the Colts from looking at the 2023 talent pool, and potentially bringing in Stroud to lead the team for years to come (hopefully).
