Mandatory minicamps are taking place around the NFL this week, and that means a host of former Ohio State Buckeyes are back on the field. Fourteen former Buckeyes were drafted in April, and they now join a growing group of Buckeyes in the NFL.
One notable player back in action this week—on both Tuesday and Wednesday—was former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud. Stroud had been a non-participant in voluntary workouts due to a shoulder injury, which led to some growing concern, at least in the media.
But the Houston Texans quarterback delivered some good news this week—and cleared the air in the process.
“I was already throwing before you guys saw me out there, pretty normally,” Stroud said recently. “I think y’all don’t have much to talk about, so y’all just—everything gets blown up in the offseason. I’m fine, man. I’m really OK.”
Stroud made the comments in his usual lighthearted tone. Now entering his third NFL season, the former Buckeye is looking to bounce back after what some would consider a bit of a sophomore slump. He threw for 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions last season—a step back from his impressive rookie campaign.
The Texans are aiming to improve their offense across the board this year, and a key part of that will be Stroud taking another step forward. With his shoulder now fully healthy, he should be ready for a strong showing in training camp this July and August.
As for the injury concerns, they appear to have been overblown from the start—a common occurrence during the offseason. Injuries, especially those involving quarterbacks, are always under a magnifying glass, and even minor issues can become major talking points this time of year.
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