5 Ohio State Players Who Could Boost Their NFL Draft Stock in the CFP National Championship
As the College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship approaches, several standout Ohio State players have an opportunity to elevate their NFL draft prospects with impressive performances on the biggest stage. With the eyes of the football world focused on the game, this could be a pivotal moment for these athletes to make a lasting impression on NFL scouts and general managers. Whether they’re looking to solidify their status as first-round picks or elevate their draft stock to new heights, the national championship game could be a defining moment for these five Ohio State stars. Here are the players who have the chance to boost their NFL prospects and potentially rise through the ranks with a stellar showing in the title game.
1. CJ Stroud – Quarterback
CJ Stroud, Ohio State’s talented quarterback, has long been considered one of the top quarterback prospects in college football. He’s displayed excellent poise, accuracy, and decision-making throughout his college career, leading the Buckeyes offense to one of the most explosive attacks in the nation. While Stroud’s draft stock has already been strong, the CFP National Championship presents a crucial opportunity for him to make his case as one of the top quarterbacks in the upcoming NFL draft.
Stroud has been exceptional in the regular season, throwing for over 3,500 yards, 40 touchdowns, and just a handful of interceptions. His ability to make all the throws—whether it’s a deep bomb downfield or a quick, accurate short pass—has impressed many evaluators. However, the championship game provides him with a platform to show NFL scouts that he can handle the pressure of the biggest stage. A dominant performance in the national championship could not only solidify Stroud as one of the top quarterbacks in the draft but also potentially cement his place as the first overall pick. With his exceptional talent, leadership, and maturity, Stroud is one of the players to watch as he aims to cap off his college career in grand fashion.
2. Jaxon Smith-Njigba – Wide Receiver
Jaxon Smith-Njigba is another Ohio State player with a tremendous opportunity to enhance his NFL draft stock in the CFP National Championship. Despite battling injuries for parts of the season, Smith-Njigba has shown why he’s considered one of the best wide receiver prospects in this draft class. Known for his elite route-running ability, hands, and ability to create separation, he has the tools to be an immediate contributor at the NFL level.
Smith-Njigba’s performance in the national championship game will be crucial for those scouts and teams still uncertain about his ability to stay healthy and perform at the highest level. If he can showcase his speed, agility, and ball skills against a top-tier defense, it could push him into the first round of the NFL draft. His ability to dominate in key moments and make big plays in a game of this magnitude could also help solidify his reputation as one of the most dynamic wide receivers in the country.
3. Paris Johnson Jr. – Offensive Tackle
Paris Johnson Jr. is widely regarded as one of the top offensive tackle prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft. The imposing 6-foot-6, 310-pound lineman has been a cornerstone of Ohio State’s offensive line for multiple seasons, and his size, strength, and technical prowess have caught the attention of NFL scouts. As the Buckeyes face off for the national championship, Johnson has the opportunity to prove that he can excel against the nation’s top competition, which will be crucial to his draft stock.
Johnson’s athleticism and footwork for a player of his size make him a prime candidate to be selected early in the draft, but scouts are eager to see how he handles elite pass rushers and top-tier defensive linemen in a high-pressure game. If he can protect his quarterback, open up running lanes, and demonstrate his ability to handle the most challenging assignments, it could raise his draft stock significantly. A dominant performance in the national championship could solidify his status as a top-10 pick and one of the premier offensive tackles in the draft.
4. Zach Harrison – Defensive End
Ohio State’s defense has been one of the most formidable in the country, and defensive end Zach Harrison is one of the key players who has the potential to greatly increase his NFL draft stock in the CFP National Championship. Harrison has been a force on the defensive line throughout his career at Ohio State, combining size, speed, and explosiveness to consistently disrupt opposing offenses. However, scouts are looking for him to take his game to another level in the biggest moments, particularly in high-pressure situations like the national championship.
A standout performance in the title game—whether through multiple sacks, tackles for loss, or consistent pressure on the quarterback—could elevate Harrison’s stock into the first round. NFL teams are always on the lookout for pass-rushers who can impact the game at the highest level, and Harrison has the tools to be one of the premier defensive ends in the draft. A breakout game in the national championship could make him one of the top choices for teams in need of an edge rusher who can contribute immediately.
5. Kourt Williams – Safety
Kourt Williams may not have the same level of national recognition as some of the other players on this list, but his performance in the CFP National Championship could put him on the radar of NFL scouts. Williams, a versatile safety, has proven his ability to contribute in both the run game and pass coverage. He’s a smart, physical player who can excel in various defensive schemes, making him a potential fit for teams looking for a playmaking safety.
While Williams may not be as widely regarded as some of the other top defensive prospects in the draft, he has the chance to elevate his stock with a strong showing in the national championship. If he can make crucial interceptions, break up passes, and show his ability to read offenses and make big-time plays, Williams could see his draft stock soar. NFL teams are always looking for safeties who can make a difference in key moments, and Williams has the chance to prove that he can be that type of player on the national stage.
Conclusion
The Ohio State Buckeyes have several players who are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming CFP National Championship, and for these five players, it’s a chance to take their NFL draft stock to new heights. Whether it’s CJ Stroud showcasing his quarterback prowess, Jaxon Smith-Njigba demonstrating his elite receiving skills, Paris Johnson Jr. proving his dominance on the offensive line, Zach Harrison disrupting offenses as a pass rusher, or Kourt Williams stepping up as a playmaking safety, these players have the chance to prove themselves in the biggest game of their college careers.
With the national spotlight shining on them, each of these players has an opportunity to solidify their place among the top NFL prospects in the 2023 draft. Their performances in the championship game could be the difference between being drafted in the first round or sliding to a later pick, so the stakes couldn’t be higher. As the Buckeyes prepare for the biggest game of the season, all eyes will be on these players to see if they can rise to the occasion and leave a lasting impression on NFL scouts. The national championship is not just a chance to win a title, but also a platform for these stars to showcase their abilities and make th
eir case for a successful NFL career.
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