As we inch toward the new season, the ever-changing NFL landscape has player fantasy football values constantly on the move. Whether you’re used to the dynasty platform or are still learning the rules, let’s dive into the latest dynasty value of C.J. Stroud.
C.J. Stroud’s Dynasty Outlook and Value
It was a wild ride to arrive at Stroud going second overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. Initially, he was expected to go second behind Bryce Young. Then, reports surfaced that he was the Panthers’ pick at No. 1, and he became the overwhelming betting favorite to be drafted first.
In the days leading up to the draft, he was suddenly no longer expected to even go top two. But when the smoke cleared, the Texans did the right thing and took the second-best quarterback in this class at No. 2 overall.
Stroud has all the makings of a franchise quarterback. While I don’t necessarily see elite fantasy upside, his floor as a pro should be around the Jared Goff range. At worst, Stroud should be a competent passer who doesn’t cost his team games.
After serving as a backup his freshman year, Stroud started his final two seasons at Ohio State. Immediately, he looked to be a class above everyone else.
MORE: FREE 2024 NFL Mock Draft Simulator
Stroud averaged 324 passing yards per game and threw for 85 touchdowns against just 12 interceptions in his two years as a starter. He completed 69.3% of his passes. While not a running quarterback, Stroud is mobile enough to move around in the pocket and can tactically scramble when needed. He’s a very polished prospect and arguably the most pro-ready in this class.
As it goes for every elite quarterback prospect, he landed on a very bad team. The Texans have a lot of work to do before their roster is truly ready to compete. But from a fantasy perspective, the most important thing is Stroud is going to start right away.
As a rookie, fantasy managers definitely should temper expectations. It’s unlikely Stroud will even be a QB2, given the Texans’ lack of weapons on offense. With Dameon Pierce and Devin Singletary, they project to be a bit run-heavy. That is especially so given their WR1 is a washed Robert Woods.
The first step in the Texans’ rebuild was securing a franchise quarterback. They should have that in Stroud. It will take another year or two for them to surround him with a supporting cast with which he can thrive.
C.J. Stroud’s Fantasy Ranking
In single-quarterback dynasty leagues, Stroud will undoubtedly be drafted. Every team in a dynasty league is rostering at least two quarterbacks. Stroud may not be a top-24 passer in 2023, but he’s undoubtedly a top-24 QB long-term.
In Superflex leagues, Stroud is part of the big three with Anthony Richardson and Bryce Young. You will see them be the second, third, and fourth picks in most dynasty rookie drafts.
MORE: 2023 Dynasty Rookie Rankings
Stroud currently checks in at 1.05 in our dynasty Superflex rookie rankings. PFN Senior Fantasy Analyst Tommy Garrett has Jahmyr Gibbs ahead of Stroud, even in Superflex.
Part of the reason for Stroud not only being the rookie QB3 but being behind two running backs, is he doesn’t project to have as high of a fantasy ceiling as Richardson and Young. While Stroud may be the safest bet in real life, safety doesn’t win fantasy championships.
Even so, fantasy managers in need of a quarterback should have no reservations about drafting Stroud. He’s a Week 1 rookie starting quarterback that should evolve into at least a high QB2 by his second or third year in the league. Even in dynasty startup drafts, Stroud is a fine pick as your QB2 or, even better, as your QB3.