Ohio State quarterback CJ Stroud has confirmed he will be declaring for the 2023 NFL draft, and will be a contender for the very first pick.
Stroud left it right until Monday's deadline to declare, joining a group of talented college stars that have already confirmed their status. Alabama’s Bryce Young and Will Anderson Jr have already announced, as have Georgian stars Jalen Carter, Broderick Jones and Kelee Ringo.
Stroud said thank you to the Ohio State fans on social media, as he posted a prepared statement. Stroud has called the Buckeye Nation his family, and admitted it was one of the 'hardest decisions he's ever made'.
"First and foremost, I want to thank my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ for blessing me with health, favour and opportunity," Stroud said on social media. "To my family, thank you for laying the foundation which I stand.
"Through all the uncertainties one thing was always certain, our love for one another. Thank you for always believing and supporting me.
"To my teammates, coaches, strength staff, nutritionists, academic advisors, support team, and everyone that works at the WHAC, thank you for building that young 18-year-old redshirt into the man that I am today. "To Buckeye Nation, it’s been a hell of a ride.
"To the students, alumni, and all of the Ohio State fans, thank you for welcoming a kid from Cali into the Buckeye family. This process has been difficult, and the decision, one of the hardest I've ever had to make.
"As a kid, I dreamed of playing football in the highest level and after much prayer, I’ve made the decision it’s time to turn those dreams into reality. With that said, I’m declaring for the 2023 NFL draft. This isn’t goodbye... Buckeye for life."
Stroud finished fourth in the Heisman voting back in 2021, and moved up to third this past 2022 season. Stroud finishes his college career with 8,123 passing yards and 85 touchdowns to his name, with just 12 interceptions.
