OSU quarterback C.J. Stroud declares for NFL Draft

COLUMBUS — Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud is closing the book on his career as a Buckeye.

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Stroud officially declared for the 2023 NFL Draft in a statement posted on his social media late Monday morning, calling the decision the hardest he’s ever had to make.

“As a kid, I dreamed of playing football at the highest level and after much prayer, I’ve made the decision that it’s time to turn those dreams into a reality,” his statement read.

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The redshirt-sophomore held the role as starting quarterback for the Buckeyes for the last two seasons. During his time in Columbus, he won 22 games and led Ohio State to a Rose Bowl victory in 2021, as well as a College Football Playoff appearance in 2022.

In his final game as a Buckeye, Stroud ended with 384 passing yards and four touchdowns in a 42-41 loss to Georgia in the Peach Bowl.

Stroud was also named a finalist for the Heisman trophy twice, finished fourth in 2021 and third in 2022.

Stroud finished his career in Columbus with the second most career completions, career yards and career touchdowns in school history.

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He thanked his family and coaching staff for their support, as well as the fans.

“To Buckeye Nation, it’s been a helluva ride. To the students, alumni, and all of THE Ohio State fans, thank you for welcoming a kid form Cali into the Buckeye family,” Stroud wrote.

Ohio State thanked Stroud on social media.

“Thank you for everything, @CJ7STROUD,” the school said in a statement.

The NFL Draft is scheduled to take place April 27-29.

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