Panthers get cozy with C.J. Stroud during Ohio State Pro Day

The Panthers, especially HC Frank Reich, seemed quite cozy with C.J. Stroud during his pro day this afternoon.

The Carolina Panthers got up close and personal with C.J. Stroud this afternoon. But, hey, at least they brought him out to dinner first.

After reportedly meeting with Stroud extensively the night prior, the Panthers sent their 14-person contingent into the Ohio State University pro day to get eyes on their potential No. 1 overall pick. And, uh, they got way more than eyes on the top quarterback prospect.

Head coach Frank Reich seemed particularly enamored by Stroud, and had some fans thinking back to a few prior first-round picks during their pro day interactions with the team . . .

As expected, the Heisman Trophy finalist shined during his throwing session in Columbus. Per the count from Joe Person of The Athletic, Stroud connected on 44 of his 51 passes—with two of the seven incompletions coming on drops.

We’ll see if all that love follows the Panthers to Tuscaloosa tomorrow, when they get a look at Alabama University’s Bryce Young on Thursday.

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