Steelers Now
The Pittsburgh Steelers may have their eyes set on quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft. Among these, Clemson’s Cade Klubnik stands out.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could be set up for a big draft day move in 2026. With the draft in Pittsburgh, fans, media, and the Steelers will certainly be eyeing the quarterback position. Among these potential first-round quarterbacks, Clemson’s Cade Klubnik is a big name going into the 2025 season.
Klubnik, a native of Austin, Texas, came out of the 2022 recruiting class as the number two overall quarterback recruit in the nation. The five-star quarterback was a dual-threat passer which has been evident on film. Among his intangibles and physical gifts, what might attract him to Pittsburgh is how his career started.
CADE KLUBNIK WAS DETERMINED TO FIND THE END ZONE 😤 pic.twitter.com/MvvOq0tunx
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) November 16, 2024
He stepped into the ACC title game in 2022 after DJ Uiagalelei was benched. In a big moment, he stepped in and made an immediate impact. Klubnik took the Tigers to a 39-10 victory and never looked back. If there’s one thing head coach Mike Tomlin loves, it’s the ability to stay prepared and perform when called upon.
The Positives
After an underwhelming 2023 and week one in 2024, he bounced back in a big way. He posted an outstanding 36 to six TD to INT ratio, added seven rushing touchdowns, and brought Clemson back to the College Football Playoff. His ability to move and extend plays, quick release with good arm strength, and being battle-tested will attract many franchises to him.
This pass attempt from Cade Klubnik 😳 pic.twitter.com/Y3wUaS1Zfp
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) December 21, 2024
The Concerns
The downside of Klubnik is sometimes he can get himself in trouble by trying to make throws he shouldn’t. This comes especially when he cannot escape pressure with his legs. Despite showing the ability to identify coverage weaknesses in pre-snap, he has been burned by disguises post-snap–something he will have to learn to adjust to. His accuracy at times can be rough–especially in the short passing game where he lacks touch. This has led to a completion percentage under 65% in each season played.
What To Watch For In 2025
Klubnik’s progression and thrown-to-the-fire success could land him in Pittsburgh. In 2025, scouts will want to see the ability to identify coverage changes post-snap. Additionally, polishing touch on throws and accuracy will be crucial at the next level. He will be in the spotlight as Clemson is projected as a top-five team in 2025.
Could Klubnik be the home run the Steelers swing for? His athletic ability and arm talent will guide him to the first-round, but the senior signal-caller has the opportunity to propel his stock big time in 2025.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Buzz Rising for 2026 NFL Draft QB Cade Klubnik
