Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik has left fans and analysts alike pondering his future with the Tigers. As the team prepares for the College Football Playoff (CFP) matchup against Texas, Klubnik has remained tight-lipped about his next steps. When pressed about the possibility of entering the NFL Draft or transferring, he firmly stated that he wouldn’t discuss 2025 until the current season wraps up.
The junior from Austin, Texas, has had a remarkable season, finishing with impressive stats: 3,003 yards, 33 touchdowns, and just five interceptions. In the critical game against the Longhorns, he showcased his skills by passing for 336 yards, along with three touchdowns and one interception, keeping the underdog Tigers competitive.
As Klubnik weighs his options, he faces a pivotal decision: enter the NFL Draft, return to Clemson, or seek a new opportunity at another college. While a return to college seems likely, it does not necessarily mean he will remain in South Carolina. If he chooses to transfer, there will undoubtedly be a long list of suitors eager to land the talented quarterback.
Potential Transfer Destinations for Cade Klubnik
If Klubnik opts for a change of scenery, several programs could provide him with an exciting opportunity to showcase his talents. Here are the top five landing spots for the Clemson QB in 2025:
#5. Indiana Hoosiers
Despite a disappointing loss to Notre Dame, Indiana had a solid season overall. However, they face a challenging schedule next year, including matchups against Oregon, Illinois, Iowa, and Penn State. With a couple of quarterbacks like Tayven Jackson waiting in the wings, Klubnik could give head coach Curt Cignetti the best chance to build on this season’s success. If Indiana can follow up their CFP appearance with another strong season, they could firmly establish themselves on the college football map.
#4. Syracuse Orange
Syracuse is in need of a new starting quarterback after Kyle McCord’s impressive season, during which he led the nation with 4,326 passing yards. With McCord and Michael Johnson Jr. out of eligibility, the Orange are looking for a replacement. Although former LSU quarterback Rickie Collins has already committed to Syracuse, Klubnik would be a significant upgrade. The Orange were competitive in 2024, and with a top quarterback, they could emerge as a dark horse in the wide-open ACC.
#3. Michigan Wolverines
The Wolverines have the No. 1 quarterback prospect, Tyler Underwood, waiting in the wings. However, after a disappointing 2024 season where the offense struggled, bringing in an experienced quarterback like Klubnik could be the key to returning Michigan to prominence. With a strong defense and some offensive talent, the Wolverines need stability at the quarterback position to elevate their game and potentially contend for the College Football Playoff once again.
#2. Missouri Tigers
Missouri is facing a transition after a lackluster 2024 season, losing significant talent to the NFL Draft, graduation, and the transfer portal. With their top two quarterbacks, Brady Cook and Drew Pyne, out of eligibility, the Tigers must find a new leader. After a breakout season in 2023, Mizzou appeared poised for a CFP run but fell short due to injuries and disappointing performances against ranked teams. Klubnik could provide the stability and talent needed to lay the groundwork for a quick turnaround in Columbia.
#1. Oregon Ducks
The Ducks have a history of welcoming experienced quarterbacks from other programs, with Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel both finding success in Eugene. Klubnik might be even more talented than his predecessors. Gabriel wrapped up the regular season with 3,558 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and six interceptions, and he is looking to make the leap to the NFL. With a strong roster returning, adding an experienced signal-caller like Klubnik could keep Oregon in the national championship conversation for another year.
As the college football landscape continues to evolve, the decisions made by players like Cade Klubnik will have significant implications for teams across the nation. Whether he chooses to enter the NFL Draft, return to Clemson, or transfer to a new program, one thing is for certain: his future will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The excitement surrounding his potential move adds another layer of intrigue to an already thrilling college football season. What will Klubnik decide? Only time will tell, but the possibilities are endless.
