C.J. Stroud, the standout quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes, has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, marking the end of an illustrious college football career. Stroud, who spent three seasons at Ohio State, established himself as one of the premier quarterbacks in college football, earning numerous accolades and setting multiple school records along the way. His decision to enter the draft has been anticipated for some time, and it signals the beginning of the next phase in his football journey as he prepares to make the jump to the NFL.
Stroud’s time at Ohio State has been nothing short of remarkable. Over his three years with the Buckeyes, he became a household name, known for his powerful arm, accuracy, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations. His leadership was a key factor in Ohio State’s continued success, leading them to multiple Big Ten championships and high-profile bowl games. Stroud’s decision to declare for the draft comes after a standout junior season, where he threw for over 4,000 yards and 40 touchdowns, cementing his place as one of the top quarterback prospects in the nation.
In his announcement, Stroud expressed immense gratitude for his time at Ohio State and the support he received from his coaches, teammates, and fans. “Being a part of this program has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Stroud said in a statement. “I’ve learned so much from my coaches, my teammates, and the Ohio State community. I’m excited to take the next step in my career and pursue my dream of playing in the NFL.”
Stroud’s decision was widely expected, as his performances over the last few seasons have put him squarely in the conversation as one of the top quarterbacks available in the draft. His blend of size, arm strength, and poise in the pocket has made him an appealing prospect for NFL teams looking to find their next franchise quarterback. As the draft approaches, Stroud is expected to be among the top picks, with many analysts projecting him to be selected within the first few selections.
Throughout his time at Ohio State, Stroud developed a reputation for his consistency and ability to lead his team through difficult situations. Whether it was leading a late-game drive or dissecting top-tier defenses, Stroud displayed the kind of maturity and football IQ that will serve him well at the professional level. His performances in marquee games, including his dominant showing in the 2023 Rose Bowl, highlighted his ability to perform on the biggest stage.
As Stroud prepares for the NFL, Ohio State will look to fill the void left by one of their most successful quarterbacks in recent memory. The Buckeyes have consistently churned out NFL talent at the quarterback position, and Stroud’s departure is just the latest in a long line of success stories from Ohio State’s football program. His successor will have big shoes to fill, but Ohio State has the resources and coaching staff in place to continue its high level of play.
For Stroud, the road to the NFL is just beginning, but his legacy at Ohio State is already firmly established. His decision to declare for the draft marks the end of an era in Columbus, but it also signifies the start of what could be a successful professional career. As he prepares for the NFL Combine and the draft process, all eyes will be on Stroud as he takes the next step toward achieving his dream of playing in the NFL.
