Former Clemson Star Cade Klubnik Earns Bold NFL Prediction

Clemson Tigers quarterback Cade Klubnik was selected by the New York Jets in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Klubnik had some productive seasons with the Tigers and will now look to carve out a role in the NFL. 

In his freshman season, he didn't play much, completing 61 of 100 passes (61 percent) for 697 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions. He rushed for 139 yards and two touchdowns on 42 carries.

In his sophomore campaign, Klubnik became the starter, completing 63.9 percent of his passes for 2,844 yards, 19 touchdowns, and nine interceptions while rushing for 182 yards and four touchdowns.

Klubnik's junior year was his best college season, as he completed 63.4 percent of his passes for 3,639 yards, 36 touchdowns, and six interceptions. He had 463 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground.

His numbers regressed in his senior year, completing 65.6 percent of his passes for 2,943 yards, 16 touchdowns, and six interceptions while adding 94 yards and four touchdowns rushing.

Klubnik showed promise during his time with the Tigers despite a down year in 2025. While he didn't go in the first round like he was once expected to, he could still create a good career for himself in the NFL.

ESPN analyst Jordan Reid thinks that Klubnik has a good landing spot with the New York Jets. One of the benefits is that they only have veteran quarterback Geno Smith locked up on a one-year deal as the starter, and Brady Cook and Bailey Zappe to compete with for the backup spot.

"When protected, Klubnik is a steady distributor who makes consistent throws to all levels, but his game breaks down into erratic, head-scratching decisions when unsettled," Reid wrote.

Reid went on to state that the Jets will give him plenty of opportunities to earn the backup spot behind Smith.

New York has the offensive talent to help a young quarterback, as they have improved the offensive line in recent years with two young tackles in Olu Fashanu and Armand Membou. They also have some great weapons in Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall.

Klubnik will need to take full advantage of the opportunities he receives, especially if he gets a chance as a starter in the 2026 season.

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