Clemson Tigers quarterback Cade Klubnik is getting serious attention after a big 2024 season. Now, he’s being linked to the NFL in a big way. A recent early mock draft suggests that Klubnik could be chosen by the Cleveland Browns to replace their current $230 million quarterback.
This bold prediction comes from NFL Draft expert Todd McShay, who shared his early 2026 mock draft. He placed Klubnik as the No. 5 overall pick, going to the Browns. If this happens, it could mean major changes for Cleveland.
Strong Comeback Season in 2024
Klubnik had a tough 2023 season. Many fans and analysts doubted him going into 2024. But he proved himself. He completed 63.4% of his passes for 3,639 yards and 36 touchdowns. He only threw six interceptions all season.
He also made plays with his legs. Klubnik rushed for 463 yards and scored seven touchdowns on the ground. His performance helped the Clemson Tigers regain national attention.
Now, Klubnik is seen as one of the top quarterbacks in college football. Some experts even consider him a possible Heisman Trophy candidate in 2025.
NFL Scouts Watching Closely
Because of his strong play, Klubnik is now on the radar of many NFL teams. According to McShay’s mock draft, he could be a top-5 pick in 2026. That would make him one of the first quarterbacks taken off the board.
In McShay’s early draft, Garrett Nussmeier from LSU was selected No. 1 overall by the New York Jets. LaNorris Sellers went No. 4 to the Los Angeles Rams. Klubnik followed them at No. 5 to the Browns.
Browns’ Current QB Situation
The Cleveland Browns already have a big-money quarterback: Deshaun Watson. He signed a $230 million fully guaranteed contract in 2022. But injuries and inconsistent play have raised concerns. The Browns also picked quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders in the 2025 draft.
If Cleveland drafts Klubnik in 2026, it could mean the team is moving on from all three. This would suggest that neither Gabriel nor Sanders worked out. It might also be a sign that the front office is looking for a fresh start at quarterback.
A move like this would show that management is still trying to solve the team’s biggest problem—finding a long-term answer at QB.
Too Early to Know for Sure
It’s important to remember that this is only an early prediction. The 2025 college football season hasn’t started yet. A lot can change before the 2026 NFL Draft.
Klubnik still needs to prove himself with another strong season. Injuries, team success, and other quarterbacks rising up the ranks can all affect his draft stock.
Still, being projected in the top 5 this early is a strong sign of how highly scouts view him.
Who Is Cade Klubnik?
Cade Klubnik is a junior quarterback at Clemson. He played high school football in Texas and was one of the top recruits in the country. Many expected him to shine early in college, but his first full season as a starter in 2023 did not go well.
In 2024, however, he showed what he can do. He looked confident, accurate, and mobile. His mix of passing and running ability makes him a dual-threat QB—something that NFL teams love.
Klubnik has also shown leadership. His teammates and coaches praise him for staying calm under pressure and working hard in practice.
What’s Next?
Klubnik will now prepare for the 2025 college football season. If he plays at a high level again, he could lock himself in as a first-round pick. Clemson’s schedule includes tough games, which will give him a chance to prove himself on the national stage.
NFL teams will be watching. If the Browns truly consider him in 2026, it could shake up their entire quarterback strategy.
