Ohio State Star Lands Huge Prediction That Would be NFL Draft’s Biggest Shock
As the 2025 NFL Draft looms on the horizon, one of the most anticipated events in the sports world, all eyes are on potential prospects and the dramatic shifts that can shake up the fortunes of teams for years to come. From top quarterbacks to explosive wide receivers, the draft is full of surprises that shape the NFL landscape. However, no prediction would turn heads more than a bold statement made by an Ohio State star. This particular player, who made waves during his time in Columbus, has ventured into the realm of fortune telling with a shocking prediction that could forever alter the direction of the draft and set the stage for an unprecedented twist.
The Ohio State Star’s Bold Prediction
Ohio State has long been a powerhouse when it comes to producing elite NFL talent. The Buckeyes have delivered an impressive array of athletes who have gone on to dominate the league. From the legendary defensive prowess of Chase Young to the explosive offensive abilities of Justin Fields and more recently, the wide receiver dominance of Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave, the Buckeyes have been a wellspring of NFL talent. So, when one of Ohio State’s biggest stars, a player who had taken the nation by storm during his college career, steps forward with an earth-shattering prediction, the football world takes notice.
The player in question, former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud, has become the center of attention with his jaw-dropping forecast about the upcoming NFL Draft. Stroud, who had a decorated college career at Ohio State and entered the 2023 draft with high expectations, has not only established himself as a future NFL star but has gained the trust of his peers and analysts for his sharp football mind. Known for his calm demeanor and sharp football IQ, Stroud recently gave a prediction that would make any football fan pause. According to Stroud, the biggest shock of the 2025 NFL Draft would be the selection of a quarterback from outside of the typical top-tier prospects, one that could disrupt the draft order and send ripple effects throughout the league.
While many expect the usual suspects—quarterbacks, wide receivers, and defensive standouts from elite programs like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU—to dominate the first round, Stroud’s bold prediction centers on a lesser-known but incredibly talented player who could be the wildcard pick that defies expectations and changes the entire draft dynamic. This player, according to Stroud, is none other than Ohio State’s own backup quarterback, Kyle McCord.
The Rise of Kyle McCord
Kyle McCord’s story at Ohio State is one that may not have garnered as much mainstream attention as other marquee players, but for those in the know, he’s always had a spark that set him apart. McCord, who transferred to Ohio State in 2020, was considered a top-tier recruit, but the emergence of Stroud and other more established players kept McCord in a backup role for much of his early career. Despite being second in line, McCord never let that hinder his preparation or growth. He was given opportunities to prove his worth when called upon, and in the games he played, he demonstrated a remarkable ability to manage the game and execute under pressure.
As a backup quarterback, McCord had his moments, showing flashes of brilliance when he had the chance to start. While Stroud took the lead in guiding Ohio State to multiple playoff appearances and Heisman-worthy performances, McCord quietly developed into one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in the country. McCord’s poise, leadership, and work ethic didn’t go unnoticed by NFL scouts, and it’s easy to see why Stroud, an established star and NFL-bound talent, is now predicting that McCord could be the dark horse pick of the draft.
It may seem far-fetched to suggest that McCord—who hasn’t had the same level of starting experience as other quarterbacks in the draft class—could emerge as a top pick. But Stroud’s prediction hinges on one key factor: the unpredictability of the NFL Draft, where teams often surprise us with selections that go against the conventional wisdom.
Why McCord Could Be the NFL’s Biggest Draft Surprise
Stroud’s prediction, while bold, is rooted in several compelling factors that could make McCord an incredibly valuable prospect for NFL teams. First and foremost, McCord’s upside is immense. He has all the tools needed to be a successful NFL quarterback, with a powerful arm, athleticism, and a high football IQ. Though he spent most of his time as a backup, McCord has had the opportunity to work with some of the best coaching minds in the college football world, including Ohio State’s Ryan Day, who has become known for developing quarterbacks like Fields and Stroud.
McCord’s potential as a future NFL starter hinges on his ability to refine his skills and show his worth in a team-oriented setting. His time as a backup at Ohio State has allowed him to learn behind a dynamic and highly successful offense, while simultaneously growing as a leader in his own right. This time under Stroud’s tutelage could help him reach another level as a quarterback that few would have predicted.
But Stroud’s prediction goes beyond McCord’s raw talent. NFL teams are often searching for hidden gems—players with untapped potential who have the right mix of mental toughness, adaptability, and physical skill. McCord may not have had the same amount of playing time as other top quarterbacks, but that lack of exposure could also play into his favor. Scouts love a quarterback who has flown under the radar, as they can sometimes present the best opportunity to mold into a franchise player without the baggage of high expectations that come with being a top-tier prospect. McCord could very well become a player that surprises everyone by finding a system that fits his skills and capitalizing on his development.
The Quarterback Landscape
In the 2025 NFL Draft, teams in need of a quarterback will undoubtedly look at several top prospects. The draft is expected to feature several highly talented quarterbacks from established football programs, including top picks from schools like Alabama, Georgia, and USC. However, as the NFL has demonstrated in recent years, teams are more than willing to take a chance on quarterbacks who might not be immediately polished but possess immense upside.
The draft class for 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in years, with a deep pool of quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and defensive standouts all vying for attention. McCord, though flying under the radar, could present an interesting option for teams looking to either develop their next franchise quarterback or take a chance on an unconventional pick. It is not unheard of for backup quarterbacks to make waves in the NFL—just ask Tom Brady, a former sixth-round pick who went on to become the greatest quarterback of all time.
Stroud’s prediction about McCord’s potential draft shock is also a reflection of the shifting landscape of the NFL. More teams are becoming open to the idea of developing quarterbacks in-house, rather than relying solely on the conventional route of selecting highly-touted stars from established programs. With the right fit, McCord’s growth could very well surprise everyone.
The Impact on the NFL Draft
If Stroud’s prediction comes true, it would send shockwaves throughout the NFL Draft. McCord’s selection as a top pick would disrupt conventional expectations and potentially change the way teams evaluate quarterbacks in future drafts. This could lead to a significant shift in scouting strategies, as teams may start placing more value on players who have developed in highly competitive environments but didn’t have the same opportunity to showcase their abilities as traditional stars.
For Ohio State, McCord’s rise would solidify the school’s reputation as a breeding ground for elite quarterbacks and increase its stock as a producer of NFL-ready talent. It would also affirm the growing influence of Ryan Day’s offensive system, which has already produced top-tier NFL quarterbacks and continues to turn heads in the college football world.
Conclusion: A New Era for Ohio State and the NFL Draft
If McCord ends up being one of the most shocking picks of the 2025 NFL Draft, it will mark a significant milestone not only for Ohio State but for the NFL as a whole. It would be a testament to the ever-changing landscape of the NFL Draft, where talent is not always defined by past experience but by potential and growth.
In the coming months, NFL teams will continue to scout, analyze, and evaluate players for the 2025 Draft. Stroud’s bold prediction may turn out to be just that—a bold prediction—but the mere possibility of McCord being drafted higher than expected serves as a reminder of the draft’s unpredictable nature. Whether it’s McCord or another surprise player who steals the spotlight, one thing is certain: the 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable in recent memory. And Ohio State will likely have yet another chapter to add to its legacy of producing NFL stars.
