What are the chances Cade Klubnik can contribute his rookie season

· Yahoo Sports

It’s rare for a 4th round quarterback to become a longtime starter in the NFL. There have been exceptions (Dak Prescott and Kirk Cousins comes to mind) but each has been shadowed by a who’s who of “who’s that” (hello Kyle Lauletta). However, when former a Clemson star Cade Klubnik was selected isn’t the most despairing aspect of his projection, it’s where he was selected. 

The New York Jets are where Quarterbacks go to rot. Their last iconic signal caller came by the likes of Joe Namath, who was drafted as recently as the signing of the Civil Rights Act (1964). Their second greatest is arguably Ken O’Brien, who led them to exactly one playoff win in nine years. The greatest of this century is likely Chad Pennington, who was able to win two playoff games in his eight seasons. 

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However, if there is any benefit to Cade landing in New York, it’s the lack of competition on that football team. Sitting behind a 35 year old Geno Smith, Klubnik is highly likely to see the field early on in his career. Additionally, the Jets have a multitude of interesting pieces on their roster. Breece Hall and Garrett Wilson are proven stars simply looking for a competent signal caller to distribute them the ball. AD Michell is an exciting young prospect with shades of George Pickens (complimentary and derogatory). Rookie Omar Cooper just won a National Championship with Indiana, and Kenyon Sadiq is a tight end with Julio Jones’ height and 40 time and Anthony Edwards’ vertical leap. 

The Jets also project a strong offensive line, with no clear holes at any of the five positions. They do set up a young quarterback to succeed, just haven’t been able to find that passer. 

In a perfect world, Cade plays a Point Guard-esque role for a team full of talented skill players. Think Memphis Grizzlies Tyus Jones or Phoenix Suns Ricky Rubio; a player that isn’t necessarily taking over games and creating big plays out of nothing, but can distribute in a way that gives his teammates the opportunity to do what they do best while limiting turnovers. 

If Klubnik can look like he did in 2024, he could genuinely help play a part in turning the Jets around. If he looks more like he did in 2025, he may peak as a high-end backup or bridge starter. Whether he’s the next Brock Purdy, or the next Will Grier, remember that Klubnik is exactly two playoff wins from becoming one of the greatest Jets quarterbacks of all time.

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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Evaluating Clemson's Cade Klubnik's potential with New York Jets

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