In Austin, the excitement surrounding Cade Klubnik is reaching new heights as he gears up for his senior season at Clemson. Once a five-star recruit from Westlake High School, Klubnik’s journey has had its ups and downs, but he is now ready to make a massive impact in college football.
After serving primarily as the backup quarterback his freshman year, Klubnik stepped into action during the ACC Championship Game, leading his team to a dominant victory over North Carolina and earning the starting role for the following season. However, his sophomore year didn’t quite go as planned, and Clemson finished with a disappointing 9-4 record, breaking a streak of 12 consecutive seasons with double-digit wins.
Last fall, though, Klubnik turned things around, ranking 10th nationally with 3,639 passing yards and throwing an impressive 36 touchdowns while only throwing six interceptions. He also showcased his rushing abilities, adding 463 yards and seven rushing touchdowns to his resume. Under his leadership, Clemson won the ACC and reached the College Football Playoff, finishing the season at 10-4.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Klubnik finds himself holding top-five rankings in various Clemson passing stats. He has proven to be an excellent athlete with quick feet and strong decision-making, especially in the run-pass option game. His ability to pull the ball from the running back and deliver it quickly has made him a valuable asset to the team’s offense.
While Klubnik excels in many areas, he also has room for improvement. His size, officially listed at 6-foot-2, 210 pounds, may hinder him when facing tough defenses. Strengthening his lower body could prevent him from going down too easily in the pocket. Moreover, adding velocity to his throws could significantly enhance his passing game and draft stock for the future.
This upcoming season is poised to be crucial for both Klubnik and Clemson, as they face formidable opponents, including LSU and South Carolina. If he can build upon his breakout performance, Klubnik may firmly position himself among the top quarterbacks available for the 2026 NFL Draft. With all eyes on him, fans are eager to see if he can continue elevating his game.