Will C.J. Stroud return to Ohio State or declare for 2023 NFL Draft?

Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud has until Monday to declare for the 2023 NFL Draft, where he is expected to be one of the top picks for a team needing a quarterback. However, Stroud has yet to make his intentions known heading into the final weekend before he must make a decision.

The quarterback put up impressive numbers in two seasons as the starter. He was a Heisman finalist in both seasons and took Ohio State to the College Football Playoff this past season. Although Stroud didn't beat Michigan in either of his two seasons as the starter, he does have a signature performance in the Rose Bowl and a near-victory in this year's Peach Bowl over eventual national champions Georgia on his resume.

One reason Stroud might stay at Ohio State for another year is a new NIL deal. Stroud has spoken highly about how NIL has benefitted him and other athletes, and the school has the resources to put together a big package for him to come back. Being a top pick in the NFL draft comes with a great paycheck but there's also a lot of pressure to succeed with minimal help from skill positions. Maybe Stroud will try to chase a national championship in 2023 instead of being chased by NFL defenders. After all, it's not like he's suddenly going to lose draft value assuming he stays healthy.