One of college football’s biggest names just earned a comparison no one saw coming.
Todd McShay has placed Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik at the very top of his 2025 NFL Draft quarterback rankings, calling the junior signal-caller the most complete prospect in the country.
Klubnik, entering what is expected to be his final season with the Tigers, has already been tabbed as Phil Steele’s preseason Heisman Trophy pick and now adds another accolade to his growing résumé.
The former five-star has thrown for 7,180 yards with 57 touchdowns and just 18 interceptions across his career, while also guiding Clemson to a 19-8 record, including an ACC Championship win over SMU and a trip to last year’s College Football Playoff.
For McShay, the evaluation is about more than just numbers. He believes Klubnik’s game has evolved into a rare blend of athleticism, arm talent, and maturity in the pocket.
“Klubnik I’ve got at No. 1 because I think he’s got size, he’s got mobility, he’s got arm strength, he’s got the tools and I saw a lot of refinement from him last year,” McShay said. “What a jump from 2023 to 2024. He can drive the deep out, extend plays with poise, and he’s only been sacked 23 times in 14 games. That’s instincts, awareness, and toughness.”
LSU Looms as First Big Test
McShay even went so far as to describe Klubnik’s release as “Gumby-like,” crediting his flexibility and creativity as a passer. He contrasted Klubnik’s pocket command with South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, noting that while Sellers was sacked 33 times last year, Klubnik’s feel for protections and defensive recognition put him in a different tier.
With Clemson loaded at receiver and expectations sky-high for 2025, McShay sees a golden opportunity for Klubnik to separate himself from the pack.
“It’s our job as evaluators to project talent beyond the system,” McShay added. “Klubnik has the experience, the arm, and now the right supporting cast. I’m excited to see how far he can take this.”
The first chance to make that statement comes on Aug. 30 when Clemson opens its season in a primetime showdown against LSU in Atlanta (7:30 p.m. ET, ABC).
With a Heisman push in motion and draft stock already soaring, Cade Klubnik will have the national stage to prove why he’s the quarterback every NFL team will be watching.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Category: Football