Ohio State's Stroud declares for 2023 NFL Draft

Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud has declared for the 2023 NFL Draft, he announced Monday.

Stroud, a Heisman Trophy finalist in both his seasons as a starter, is expected to be a top-five selection and one of the first quarterbacks picked in April's draft.

"This process has been difficult, and the decision one of the hardest I've ever had to make," Stroud wrote in his announcement. "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."

The 21-year-old had until the end of the day Monday to declare for the draft. He has 72 hours to rescind his declaration.

It was rumored the Ohio State product was offered a lucrative NIL deal to stay in Columbus for one more season, according to Brad Crawford of 247 Sports.

Stroud spent his true freshman season as Justin Fields' backup in 2020. He went 21-3 in two seasons as a starter, throwing for 7,775 yards with 81 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.