The New York Jets have their developmental quarterback, and they moved up to get him.
Gang Green traded up to 110 in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL draft to select Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik. New York traded away their two additional fourth-round picks (128 and 140) while adding a sixth-round pick this year (199th).
“It means a lot to me,” Klubnik said regarding the Jets trading up for him. “That shows their interest in me, and I was really hoping for this.”
Klubnik is one of the shorter quarterbacks in the 2026 class with strong anticipation, a good release, and athleticism to intrigue teams around the league. Had he declared in last year’s draft, the Clemson product could have gone a lot higher than the fourth round.
Instead, he returned for his final season at Clemson. Much like a majority of the Tigers’ roster, Klubnik struggled down the stretch and saw his stock fall to the fourth round. He lacks true dynamic arm strength for the NFL level he can get antsy in the pocket.
Klubnik started 49 games over the course of his NCAA career and threw 73 touchdowns to 24 interceptions. His 64 percent completion percentage was just two points lower than former first-overall pick Trevor Lawrence.
New York was expected to bring in a quarterback at some point throughout the draft, with Geno Smith leading the way and no clear-cut backup behind him.
“I’m excited to go into that room,” Klubnik said. “I already told coach Reich (offensive coordinator Frank Reich) to send me the playbook tonight. So excited to get to work. Excited to show everyone who Cade Klubnik is.”
The Jets were enamored with Klubnik’s talent enough to move up to get him and get the development the organization was looking for.
