This was not the season Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik envisioned. Still, his toughness and leadership deserve real credit. The clearest example came in Clemson’s bowl game against Penn State, when Klubnik chose to play despite many of his teammates who are headed for the 2026 NFL Draft opting out. He did so while dealing with multiple injuries throughout the season, including ankle, quad, and thumb issues.
A season that derailed the hype
The injuries clearly impacted his production. After throwing 36 touchdown passes in 2024, that number dropped to just 16 this season. The decline in efficiency, particularly in the red zone, played a major role in his draft stock taking a hit. Klubnik entered the year as ESPN’s top projected prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft. That projection was always aggressive, but the slide has been real. I had him graded as a third round prospect entering the season, and even that now feels optimistic given how the year played out.
At this point, Klubnik carries a fourth round grade on my board, with a consensus third round grade according to NFL Mock Draft Database. That said, writing him off would be lazy scouting. There are legitimate traits here that can translate to the NFL. He is fundamentally sound, with a tight, repeatable release and good footwork, especially when operating from a clean pocket. When protected, he can look like a different quarterback.
Cade Klubnik balled out in Clemson's 29-13 over FSU.
— ESPN College Football (@ESPNCFB) October 6, 2024
The Tigers became the first team since 1980s Miami to win FOUR straight games in Tallahassee 🐅 pic.twitter.com/u2iYrIGAZz
The arm talent is not elite, but it is more than functional. In 2024, he recorded 28 PFF big-time throws, ranking fifth in the FBS. That did not disappear overnight. He also brings mobility that adds value to an offense. He is comfortable on the move and effective in the RPO game, where his decision-making and athleticism show up consistently.
In terms of NFL fit, the Los Angeles Rams stand out immediately. Klubnik makes sense in Sean McVay’s system because of his football IQ, timing, and accuracy on defined reads. The Rams’ heavy use of play-action would take pressure off him and allow him to play fast rather than forcing him to be a hero. In the right environment, Klubnik has the tools to develop into a capable starter or, at minimum, a reliable long-term backup. The ceiling is lower than it once appeared, but the floor is still worth betting on.