Clemson star Cade Klubnik is predicted to replace a struggling veteran quarterback on an underperforming NFL team after draft.

In the ever-evolving world of football, timing is everything. For Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik, the stars are beginning to align at the perfect moment. After a breakout college career and a Heisman-worthy 2024 season, Klubnik is not only being discussed as one of the top NFL Draft prospects for 2026 — he’s now projected to replace a struggling veteran quarterback on one of the NFL’s most underperforming teams.

From Tiger Town to the NFL’s hot seat, Klubnik’s journey could reshape the future of a franchise desperate for change.

A Star Is Born at Clemson

Cade Klubnik didn’t just show up at Clemson — he arrived with expectations. A five-star recruit from Austin, Texas, and the top quarterback in his class, Klubnik was viewed as the heir apparent to Clemson’s storied quarterback lineage that includes Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence.

But rather than walking straight into the spotlight, Klubnik had to bide his time behind D.J. Uiagalelei. When opportunity came — first in the 2022 ACC Championship Game, then in the 2023 season — Klubnik seized it. By the time the 2024 season kicked off, he had evolved from a promising backup into the undisputed leader of the Clemson offense.

His 2024 campaign was electric: 3,639 passing yards, 36 touchdowns through the air, 463 yards rushing, and 7 scores on the ground. He led Clemson to the ACC title, a College Football Playoff appearance, and reestablished the Tigers as a national powerhouse. More importantly, he showcased every trait NFL scouts drool over — poise, accuracy, athleticism, and leadership.

The NFL Is Watching

Scouts from across the league have taken notice of Klubnik’s trajectory. One NFC South scout anonymously told The Athletic, “He checks all the boxes. You want a guy who’s been in big games, who’s mature, who doesn’t get rattled. Cade has all of that.”

In early 2025 mock drafts, Klubnik is already trending as a top-five pick — with some analysts putting him as high as No. 1 overall. That has spurred speculation around which NFL team might pin its hopes on Klubnik to turn around their franchise. And a few glaring candidates stand out.

NFL Teams in Quarterback Trouble

1. Washington Commanders

The Commanders are in disarray. A carousel of quarterbacks over the past five seasons — from Carson Wentz to Sam Howell to Jacoby Brissett — has failed to produce results. Their 2024 campaign ended with a 4–13 record and little optimism. The fanbase is restless, and the front office is under pressure to finally land a franchise QB.

Klubnik’s cerebral play style and mobility would be a perfect fit in Washington’s West Coast system, especially with a young receiving corps that needs a leader under center.

2. New York Jets

Aaron Rodgers’ comeback from an Achilles injury in 2024 was underwhelming. The Jets again failed to reach the playoffs, and with Rodgers turning 42, the franchise is staring down the reality that its window has closed. The team’s young defense and talented skill players like Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall are wasting away without a competent quarterback.

Klubnik could inject new life into the Jets’ offense, much like Trevor Lawrence did for Jacksonville.

3. Dallas Cowboys

This may be the most explosive scenario. With Dak Prescott’s massive contract and inconsistency continuing to haunt Dallas, there are whispers that 2025 could be his final season in a Cowboys uniform. Jerry Jones isn’t known for patience, and if Dallas once again exits early from the playoffs — or misses them altogether — he may finally pull the trigger on a new face of the franchise.

Texas native Cade Klubnik replacing Prescott? It would dominate headlines and reignite the Cowboys’ massive fanbase.

4. Cleveland Browns

Deshaun Watson has not lived up to his massive contract, and injuries continue to be a concern. Backup Joe Flacco isn’t the future, and while Shedeur Sanders was drafted in 2025, there are still doubts about his NFL readiness. If Sanders falters, the Browns could be tempted to go all-in on Klubnik.

Why Klubnik Is Ready to Start Day One

One of the most common critiques of rookie quarterbacks is that they need time to adjust. That may not be the case with Klubnik. His time under Dabo Swinney has prepared him in ways most college QBs can’t claim.

1. Pro-Style Experience

Under Clemson offensive coordinator Garrett Riley, Klubnik operated a system that incorporated spread principles with pro-style elements — play-action, checkdowns, and advanced coverage reads. This experience has given him a head start on NFL terminology and concepts.

2. Poise Under Pressure

Whether it was the ACC Championship, the Orange Bowl, or fourth quarters against ranked opponents, Klubnik never looked overwhelmed. His ability to manage high-stakes games mirrors what’s required of an NFL starter — especially on struggling teams that need a calming presence.

3. Athletic Versatility

In today’s NFL, pocket passers are no longer enough. The rise of players like Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and Jalen Hurts has shifted the QB archetype. Klubnik fits that mold. His athleticism allows him to extend plays and convert key third downs with his legs.

Replacing a Veteran: The Emotional Challenge

Replacing a beloved — or even long-tenured — veteran is never easy. Just ask Jordan Love in Green Bay or Mac Jones in New England. Klubnik would not only need to win games but win over a locker room used to the former regime.

This is where his personality becomes a strength. Coaches at Clemson have raved about Klubnik’s humility and emotional intelligence.

“He doesn’t walk in like he owns the place,” said Dabo Swinney. “He earns respect by doing the work, listening, and putting the team first.”

Those traits will be vital if Klubnik lands on a team with a fractured culture or aging roster.

The Ideal NFL Scenario

So, what’s the dream outcome?

Let’s imagine this: the Washington Commanders, sitting at No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft after another disastrous season, take Klubnik as their quarterback of the future. They bring in a new offensive-minded head coach, pair Klubnik with a young offensive line and a fast receiving corps, and commit to rebuilding the team around him.

Within two years, Washington is not only competitive but winning their division. It’s not fantasy — it’s the kind of arc we’ve seen from Joe Burrow in Cincinnati or C.J. Stroud in Houston.

What Could Go Wrong?

Not every star college quarterback makes it in the NFL. Just ask Zach Wilson, Sam Darnold, or Josh Rosen. For Klubnik, the biggest risks are:

• Landing on a dysfunctional team with no plan to develop him.
• Being rushed onto the field before the offense is tailored to his strengths.
• Injuries, especially with a poor offensive line.

But unlike many prospects, Klubnik has had a full college career, not just a flash-in-the-pan season. He’s faced pressure. He’s learned from mistakes. That maturity may be his greatest asset.

Klubnik’s Perspective

When asked in April 2025 about his NFL future, Klubnik didn’t take the bait.

“I’m focused on winning games for Clemson,” he said. “Everything else will take care of itself.”

Classic Swinney-trained humility. But those close to Klubnik know he’s ready. Ready for the next challenge. Ready for the weight of a franchise. Ready to walk into a struggling NFL locker room and say: “Let’s change everything.”

Cade Klubnik isn’t just a future NFL quarterback — he may be the solution for a team in chaos. Whether it’s Washington, Dallas, Cleveland, or another franchise that limps to the end of the 2025 season with quarterback woes, Klubnik is the name already circled on draft boards.

Replacing a veteran on an “awful NFL team” is a massive challenge. But if anyone is poised to rise to the moment — to take a broken situation and build something new — it’s Cade Klubnik.

His Clemson legacy is nearly complete. His NFL journey? It’s just getting started.