3 quarterbacks the Vikings should be targeting in 2023 NFL Draft to replace Kirk Cousins

C.J. Stroud could be the second Buckeyes quarterback to join the NFC North ranks

With the way things are going in Columbus, it would not be shocking for C.J. Stroud to be the third first-round quarterback in a row to come out of Ohio State, joining Chicago Bears starter Justin Fields and the late Dwayne Haskins. Stroud took complete control of the starting job last year and is probably the best bet to win the Heisman Trophy should Alabama star Bryce Young not repeat.

There are three things Stroud has going for him over Young to be the next guy in Minneapolis. One, he has thrived playing in a northern climate. Two, he is bigger than Young, coming in at 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds. And three, he will have the best receiving corps in college football once again to rifle the pigskin to. Look for Jaxson Smith-Njigba to become the next Garrett Wilson or Chris Olave.

Ultimately, people are going to pick and choose between Stroud and Young throughout the next draft process. Expect for them to win at least a dozen games apiece, reunite in New York City for the Heisman Trophy ceremony and possibly play face other in the national championship. Right this instant, Stroud is the better fit for the Vikings over Young. It is close, but Stroud is the guy.

The Vikings may like Cousins, but they could fall in love with a quarterback in the 2023 NFL Draft.