Houston Texans' QB C.J. Stroud Praises Florida State 'Beast' Keon Coleman

Keon Coleman has established himself as one of the top draft prospects, recording 472 yards on 31 catches through the first seven games.

HOUSTON — Houston Texans' quarterback C.J. Stroud joined ESPN College GameDay Saturday morning ahead of Ohio State's 20-12 victory over Penn State. During his appearance, Stroud picked Florida State to win their respective game over Duke. And during his prediction, Stroud displayed his admiration for Florida State's wide receiver, Keon Coleman.

"I’m going Florida State," Stroud said. "I like Keon Coleman, one of the receivers. I think he’ll be a top draft pick. He’s a beast. I like the offense that they run."

The Florida State Seminoles (7-0) won their seventh consecutive game in a 38-20 home victory. Coleman had a modest performance as he finished the game with 54 yards on two catches.

But Coleman's play over the previous six games indicated why Stroud has enjoyed the 20-year-old prospect and perhaps gave his endorsement six months before the 2024 NFL Draft. 

Florida State Seminoles wide receiver Keon Coleman celebrates after a first down catch during the second half against the Duke Blue Devils / Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports

Coleman has established himself as one of the top prospects after appearing in six games during the 2023 season — where he has recorded 472 yards on 31 catches.

Drafting a receiver with their lone first-round pick appears to be a realistic option for the Texans, who currently hold the Cleveland Browns pick entering the 2024 NFL Draft. Pro Football Focus' mock draft has the Browns holding the No. 14 pick. 

Headlined by Nico Collins, Houston's wide receiving corps has surpassed its subpar preseason expectations. But it would be in the Texans' best interest to add to its position group with an exceptional playmaker similar to Coleman.

According to Pro Football Focus, Coleman, a 6-foot-4 wideout, "has hauled in four contested catches" to begin his junior year.