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Texans BREAKING: Houston Picks Ohio State QB C.J. Stroud At No. 2

The Houston Texans have made Ohio State's quarterback C.J. Stroud their first pick of the 2023 NFL Draft.

HOUSTON — After weeks of speculation, the Houston Texans stuck to the plan of drafting a quarterback. With the No. 2 pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, the Texans drafted C.J. Stroud.

Stroud may not possess the arm strength that made Bryce Young the top-rated quarterback prospect, but the talent gap between the two respective parties is not far off. He finished his college at Ohio State throwing for 8,123 yards while completing 69.3 percent of his passes for 85 touchdowns and a dozen interceptions.

He isn't the typical dual-threat quarterback as Lamar Jackson or Justin Fields. But he does possess the athleticism to use his legs when needed.

Despite falling 42-41, Stroud's performance against the Georgia Bulldogs was one of the best games of his college career. He finished with 348 yards and four touchdowns while completing 23-of-34 pass attempts. Stroud also rushed for 34 yards.  

The Texans have the capital to improve their franchise through the draft. And the selection of Stroud is an upgrade over Davis Mills — who is hoping to retain his job as the team's starter under center for another season.

SI Draft Bible says:

"Known as the first one in, last one out, Stroud possesses all the intangibles that NFL decision-makers seek from a franchise quarterback—head coach Ryan Day has praised his work ethic and professional approach to the game on a daily basis. His cerebral awareness allows for the Buckeyes staff to open up the playbook.

Stroud was the second pick of the night. The Carolina Panthers took quarterback Bryce Young, at pick No. 1.


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