2026 NFL Prospect Profile: Clemson’s QB Cade Klubnik

Cade Klubnik turned heads in 2024 with what many considered his breakout season. He made his mark on the Clemson offense by racking up over 3,600 yards in the air and throwing for over 30 touchdowns. He limited his interceptions to only 6 on the campaign and posted a memorable College Playoff performance, logging over 300 yards in the air and 3 more touchdowns in a losing effort. 

Klubnik was heralded coming out of high school as Clemson’s next great quarterback, and he left no doubt in 2024. Klubnik’s performance during the upcoming season could lead him to be the second-best quarterback prospect in this class. 

Strengths 

Where to start? Klubnik has the size and body type to be a successful NFL signal caller. He’s got a great pocket presence, knowing when to step up, scramble, or throw it away. He is poised for his age and has a quick release that may be the best in the class. And with a clean pocket, his may also be the best pocket passer in the 2026 group as well. He never seems rushed and has a coolness under fire that NFL teams seek in their quarterbacks. 

But Klubnik is equally dangerous outside the pocket. He’s got the speed to scramble and pick up yards with his legs. His dual-threat ability will keep opposing defenses guessing. What’s more is that he's nearly as accurate on the run as he is in the pocket. 

Weaknesses

Klubnik, while accurate, will need to become more comfortable fitting balls into a tight window at the next level. He is usually smart, picking the easiest option to make a completion, but in the Pro game, there are no “easy” receptions. 

And some teams will want to see his willingness to go downfield spike as well. In the ACC, he doesn’t need to do that at times, but scouts won’t ask him to be a gunslinger either. He’s cerebral, collected, poised, and may just need to get accustomed to the pro speed and coverages.

When pressured, Klubnik, like all quarterbacks, isn’t as accurate. That said, with patience and time in the pros, he has the pocket presence and overall football IQ to iron this out. 

Conclusion

Klubnik will be a first-rounder in next Spring’s draft. But the question is where he will come off the board. He can be the second quarterback off the board, but his 2025 season will help determine his slotting for next April.

That said, Klubnik’s athleticism, dual-threat ability, and high football IQ will help him mature quickly. Draft Nation expects Klubnik to find his NFL home in the top 8, if not in the top 5 picks. And if he shows off deep ball accuracy in 2025, it could be a top 2 or 3 slotting.