Why C.J Stroud is the Best Dressed 2023 Draft Prospect

If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you play good. If you play good, they pay good.

Cam Newton

Anticipated draft pick, C.J. Stroud is proving his ability to appeal to the public- not only through football, but also through his trendsetting. Stroud is one of the most talked about quarterbacks in the 2023 Draft, totaling over 8,000 yards and 85 touchdowns in his two seasons playing with Ohio State. 

The Buckeye is familiar with the world of NIL deals (Name, Image and Likeness), having experience with Bentley, Dr. Teal’s, Kane Footwear, and more. 

What brands is Stroud sporting off the field?

DSW

In the fall of 2022, Designer Shoe Warehouse (DSW) announced its partnership with the quarterback. The company is known for their diverse assortment of brand-name footwear and accessories ranging from sneakers to dress shoes. Stroud was able to negotiate a deal with the business through the help of The Foundation Ohio, Ohio State’s NIL collective.

The company has noted a desire to promote not only their women’s lines, but also their mens’ footwear. In order to this, they plan to utilize the style influence of young and relevant athletes like Stroud. “DSW men’s is growing as we continue to acquire and engage new male customers,” said DSW Chief Marketing Officer Julie Roy. “As part of this growth, we are investing in partnerships for DSW to build awareness of our incredible men’s assortment.”

Teammates Denzel Burke, TreVeyon Henderson, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba are also a part of the deal. Owner of DSW, Jay Schottenstein, is also the CEO of American Eagle Outfitters, which is employing Burke and Henderson. Meanwhile, Stroud and Smith-Njigba serve as style authorities for Designer Shoe Warehouse. Stroud also has a solo deal with Schottenstein’s company, Value City Furniture.

Many details regarding the agreement are unknown. However, Stroud and Smith-Njigba have appeared at several meet and greet events and photoshoots.

Express

The Columbus-based company paired with Stroud, also in September of last year. Rumored to be a top-five pick in the 2023 Draft, the 21 year-old is making the most of his NIL abilities as an Express brand ambassador. 

As part of this endorsement deal, Stroud was able to snag $500 gift cards for each of his teammates. 

“I just wanted to do something for the team, so I got everybody $500 gift cards to go to Express and get your own suits,” Stroud announces to his team last September. “Make sure you’re looking fly… [and that] we all look like a team.” 

Smith-Njigba is part of this endorsement, as well, as Express features both the wide receiver and the quarterback on their website as models. Both athletes’ clothing lines can be found here.

This is a genius move on Express’ part. The press will repeatedly photograph Stroud in their apparel, as well as a bus-full of athletes sporting their suits. Plus, fans can purchase suits inspired and worn by their favorite players.

Society’s New View

Nowadays society’s view has broadened, and male athletes are able to represent clothing brands without judgment. In 1979, Phil Esposito, Anders Hedberg, Ron Duguay, Dave Maloney of the New York Rangers represented Sasson jeans in a very cheesy commercial. The players skate across the ice wearing jeans and dancing to disco music. 

Individuals of all kinds, not just athletes, perform their best when they look their best. Stroud is proving this is true for himself as he gets ready to step onto the big stage the night of April 27.

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated in what kinds of activities players participate in off the football field. Growing up in New Jersey, she is a New York Giants fan and attends Rutgers University, pursing a career in Journalism and Media Studies. She writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering anticipated draft picks and their acts of volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and other interests that shape these individuals.