Former Clemson Tigers star quarterback Cade Klubnik is facing big expectations entering the NFL.
The Clemson Tigers saw their star quarterback, Cade Klubnik, head into the NFL during the 2026 draft. He was selected by the New York Jets with the No. 110 overall pick in the fourth round.
Just a couple of short years ago, Klubnik was being viewed as a likely first-round pick. His sub-par season in 2025 cost him that opportunity. Despite the setback, there are still high expectations for the former Clemson standout.
Klubnik ended up playing in four seasons with the Tigers. He completed 64 percent of his career pass attempts for 10,123 yards, 73 touchdowns, and 24 interceptions. In addition, Klubnik also ran for 878 yards and 17 more touchdowns.
Ahead of his rookie season, Klubnik has received a Brock Purdy-inspired take.
As shared by Fox Sports, there are NFL scouts who believe that Klubnik is the most likely quarterback in this year's class to take the Purdy path. Of course, Purdy went from being Mr. Irrelevant to being a legitimate superstar at the professional level.
Those scouts also see a pathway for Klubnik to end up playing as a rookie with the Jets.
"It’s not crazy to think he’ll play at some point this season, but the overall situation with the Jets isn’t great. They do have a decent offensive line, though, and at least a few weapons," they wrote. "If injuries really were the issue last season, Klubnik could even play well. He’d have to show a lot, though, to convince the Jets to not draft another quarterback in the first round next year."
At this point in time, New York is expected to start Geno Smith at quarterback. Behind him, Klubnik will be competing with Brady Cook for the backup job.
Clemson fans are all aware of what Klubnik is capable of doing. He has legitimate starting NFL quarterback potential.
Hopefully, the young signal caller is able to put everything together. He has to work on his consistency, but the arm talent is there for him to carve out a long-term future playing on Sunday's.
Only time will tell whether or not he can live up to this hype, but clearly there are many around the NFL who think he has a shot at success.
