Cade Klubnik

Cade Klubnik News

Cade Klubnik Will Have an Opportunity to Win the Backup QB Job

New York Jets rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik impressed the coaching staff during offseason workouts, figures to get plenty of reps during the preseason, and will have an opportunity to win the backup job and "perhaps lay the groundwork for late-season playing time," according to Rich Cimini of ESPN. Klubnik's progress in the spring was impeded when he missed the last two weeks of practice with back tightness, but before that, he was doing "a really good job," according to head coach Aaron Glenn. The 22-year-old fourth-rounder out of Clemson will compete with Bailey Zappe and Brady Cook for the backup job behind veteran Geno Smith in training camp this summer. Jets coaches don't think Klubnik's mechanics need much work; he just needs experience. Offensive coordinator Frank Reich said Klubnik is "pretty charismatic" with "high emotional intelligence" and "natural leadership instincts." "He's got a good base, a good rhythm. He's got plenty good grip [on the ball], so there's not a lot of slipping in mid-motion. Those balls aren't coming unraveled when he throws it. He throws a nice, tight spiral," QBs coach Bill Musgrave said. Klubnik can be ignored in 2026 redraft leagues, and he'll be a developmental QB to stash in dynasty/keeper formats.

Jul 20, 2026 10:59 AM EST

Cade Klubnik is Dealing with Back Tightness

New York Jets quarterback Cade Klubnik (back) didn't take the practice field on Wednesday, according to head coach Aaron Glenn. The rookie quarterback is reportedly dealing with back tightness, so he'll get the day off to rest. The team expects Klubnik to be back and ready for next week's minicamp. The fourth-round pick is currently competing for the backup role to begin the season. The assumption is that Geno Smith will be the starter, but it's possible Klubnik pushes for the starting gig. Nonetheless, it sounds like a minor issue, so the Clemson standout will be ready to practice again soon.

Jun 10, 2026 5:56 PM EST

Jets Trade Up to Select Quarterback Cade Klubnik

The New York Jets have selected Clemson quarterback prospect Cade Klubnik with the 110th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. The Jets moved up to this slot via trade with the Cincinnati Bengals. In full, the Jets acquired the 110th and 199th picks from the Bengals in exchange for the 128th and 140th picks. Selecting Klubnik is a relatively low-risk move with upside for the Jets, whose current quarterback is Geno Smith. We don't see any path to Klubnik starting over Smith by Week 1, but the rookie could start generating some buzz if Smith struggles down the stretch this season. A three-year starter at Clemson, Klubnik finished the 2025 campaign with a 65.6% completion rate, 2,943 passing yards, 16 passing touchdowns, and six interceptions across 12 games. His stats took a major step back from 2024, when he had 36 passing touchdowns. The Jets are hoping he can return to that form, especially if he opens his career as a developmental backup.

Apr 25, 2026 8:44 AM EST