Colts Visiting with Top Potential QB in Draft
The Indianapolis Colts continue to do their research on the upcoming class of quarterbacks in the 2023 NFL Draft this week as they will reportedly visit with Ohio State's C.J. Stroud.
"C.J. Stroud also has visits with the #Colts (4) and #Lions (6) later this week," NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported. "Almost every team in the top eight spending extra time with one of the draft’s top QBs."
Stroud has been in strong contention for the top overall pick to the Carolina Panthers for several weeks now, which has led to him becoming an afterthought option for the Colts, who hold the fourth-overall pick. However, the Colts need to do their due diligence with all of these guys. Although it's likelier than not that Stroud won't be available to the Colts when they're on the clock, there are sane scenarios where he could become their pick.
For example, if the Panthers choose Bryce Young or someone else over Stroud, who is then bypassed by the Houston Texans at No. 2 as well, then suddenly Stroud is available at No. 3 right before the Colts pick, giving them the option of trading up one spot to get him or hoping he lasts one more pick.
The Colts worked out Stroud, Young, Anthony Richardson, and Will Levis last week and now are having meetings with them in these final couple of weeks before the draft begins on Thurs., April 27.
Stroud is arguably the safest quarterback in the draft, but it's because he can be considered the most complete player at the position and ultimately, the total package. As a passer, he's quite accurate and has ample arm strength. He's also athletic and can evade pressure. Stroud is smart and can identify what defenses are attempting. As a leader, he's a hard worker, charismatic, confident, and draws players in his direction. He almost certainly checks the most boxes for the Colts.
In two years as the Buckeyes' starting quarterback, Stroud went 575-of-830 passing (69.3%), amassing 8,123 yards (9.8 YPA) and 85 touchdowns as well as 12 interceptions for a passer rating of 182.4. He also never lost a fumble.
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