Who will replace C.J. Stroud at Ohio State? Here’s 3 options
By Scott Rogust
Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud officially declared for the 2023 NFL Draft. Here’s who could replace him as the Buckeyes starting quarterback.
Entering this season, it felt like a near certainty that Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud would declare for the NFL Draft. He had quite the performance in the Peach Bowl against Georgia that really increased his stock. Yet, he didn’t officially declare for the draft days after the New Year’s Eve game, and had until Jan. 16 to make an official decision. Would he go to the NFL? Or would he stay in Columbus to play for the Buckeyes for another year?
On Jan. 16, Stroud posted a message on his social media account, officially declaring for the 2023 NFL Draft. Now, he will be in discussion to be the first quarterback selected on Apr. 28 in Kansas City, MO.
With Stroud gone, where do the Buckeyes go now? Who will fill the void left by Stroud and help lead Ohio State back to the College Football Playoff? Let’s take a look at three options, both internally and externally.
Who is Kyle McCord?
Luckily for the Buckeyes, they have a five-star quarterback waiting in the wings in Kyle McCord. Back in 2019, McCord committed to play for Ohio State as a member of the 2021 class. He was the primary backup to Stroud for the 2021 and 2022 campaigns.
McCord did have a start in his freshman year against Akron, where he completed 13-of-18 pass attempts for 319 yards and two touchdowns, while throwing one interception in the 59-7 win.
In his two years with the Buckeyes, McCord recorded 606 passing yards, three passing touchdowns, and two interceptions while completing 41-of-58 pass attempts.
Going from Stroud to a five-star quarterback is the best succession plan for the Buckeyes. But, they do have another internal option to replace Stroud.