Can Clemson's Cade Klubnik follow in the footsteps of Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix, transforming from a quarterback written off by many into a potential first-round NFL draft pick? It's a question on the minds of many college football analysts and NFL scouts alike. Klubnik's journey has been far from smooth, marked by periods of struggle and intense scrutiny, but recent developments suggest a promising trajectory.
From Freshman Hype to Sophomore Slump
Klubnik arrived at Clemson with significant hype, being one of the few highly touted quarterbacks in his class to start as a true freshman. However, his sophomore season saw him averaging just 6.1 yards per attempt, and Clemson failed to reach the 10-win mark for the first time since 2010. This led to calls for him to be benched, a stark contrast to the initial expectations.
The Turning Point
According to ESPN, an anonymous SEC coach noted Klubnik's significant improvement since the beginning of the 2024 season. Comparing his performance against Georgia early in the season to his showing against Texas in the College Football Playoff, the coach remarked, "He’s gotten so much better... What makes him dangerous is his ability to tuck the ball and get vertical... Their best play is quarterback draw.” In the game against Texas, Klubnik threw for an impressive 336 yards and three touchdowns, demonstrating a significant leap in his abilities.
In 2024, Klubnik completed 63.4% of his passes for 3,639 yards and 36 touchdowns, with only six interceptions. He also added 463 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on the ground. His dual-threat capabilities are becoming increasingly evident, making him a more dynamic and dangerous player.
Tajh Boyd's Influence
Former Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd has played a crucial role in Klubnik's development. Boyd, now an assistant quarterbacks coach at Clemson, has mentored Klubnik, helping him navigate the pressures and expectations that come with being a Clemson quarterback. Boyd's own experiences with early-career struggles have allowed him to provide valuable guidance and support to Klubnik.
Looking Ahead
Klubnik's continued development will be crucial in determining his NFL potential. If he can maintain his current trajectory and continue to improve his decision-making and accuracy, he could very well find himself in the conversation for a first-round draft pick. The upcoming season will be a critical test of his skills and leadership, as he aims to lead Clemson back to the top of college football.