Here’s why CJ Stroud declaring for 2023 NFL Draft is great news for the Bears

The Chicago Bears’ grip on the 2023 NFL Draft got even stronger Monday with Ohio State quarterback CJ Stroud’s announcement that he’s turning pro.

There had been speculation that Stroud would return to the Buckeyes in 2023 for a boatload of NIL money. Instead, he’ll join Alabama quarterback Bryce Young as one of the most sought-after passers in this year’s NFL draft class.

Ohio State QB CJ Stroud is entering the 2023 NFL Draft. pic.twitter.com/8L6YvrmV38

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 16, 2023

CJ Stroud gives Chicago Bears more trade options at No. 1 overall

Stroud’s entry into the 2023 NFL Draft enhances this year’s quarterback class. Young, the presumptive favorite to be the first overall pick if the Bears trade out, doesn’t possess prototype NFL measurables. He’s expected to check in under 5-11 and 190 pounds. That’s small for any quarterback prospect, let alone a player projected to be the first pick.

Young’s lack of even minimum position requirements will likely scare some quarterback-needy teams away. And had Stroud not declared, those same teams may have balked on dipping into this year’s quarterback class. With Stroud in place, the trade market for the No. 1 overall pick grew larger.

The ripple effect of C.J. Stroud declaring for the 2023 NFL draft goes beyond the first pick.

Let’s assume the Bears trade with a team with their heart set on Bryce Young. For this exercise, we’ll say it’s the Houston Texans, the Bears trade down one spot with Houston, add more picks in the 2023 draft, and a first-rounder in 2024. Armed with the second overall pick and Stroud still on the board, the Chicago Bears could trade back again, perhaps with a team like the Indianapolis Colts or Carolina Panthers. General manager Ryan Poles could have the rare opportunity to trade back twice with teams desperate to add a quarterback.

If Stroud didn’t declare, that scenario would be all but non-existent.

The ripple effect goes even further. If Stroud ends up being one of the first two or three picks in the 2023 NFL Draft, the odds the Chicago Bears remain in striking distance for Will Anderson Jr. or Jalen Carter increase. They can take bigger risks — slide back a bit farther — because Stroud is in place.

Regardless of how it all works out, the only thing that will matter is whether Poles makes the right trade, the right pick, and gets the Chicago Bears on track toward being a competitive playoff contender next season.

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