Texans Ex Wants Ohio State QB in NFL Draft: 'C.J. Stroud For President'

Former NFL running back Jonathan Wells would love to see the Houston Texans draft quarterback prospect C.J. Stroud in April.

HOUSTON — The hiring of coach DeMeco Ryans has brought new life to the Houston Texans. 

But the promise fans have felt since Ryans' return will reach another level with the possibility of drafting either quarterback prospects C.J. Stroud or Bryce Young.

There will be a massive debate between Stroud and Young until the Texans make their first pick (no. 2 overall) of the 2023 NFL Draft. But former Texans' running back Jonathan Wells has already endorsed Stroud as Houston's new quarterback.

"C.J. Stroud for president," Wells said on the latest installment of Locked On Texans. "C.J. Stroud has shown since taking over the starting position at Ohio State that he can make every throw. He has the size. He excelled in the conditions that you're going to have to play in the NFL.

"After the game against Georgia, I don't see how you can have anything negative to say about C.J. — I'm sorry."

Stroud may not possess the arm strength that made Young the top-rated prospect, but the talent gap between the two respective parties is not far off. He finished his college career 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 projected selection of Stroud or Young, both quarterbacks would be an upgrade over Davis Mills — who is hoping to retain his job as the team's starter under center for another season.

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 You can follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at @CotyDavis_24

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