Jets' Cade Klubnik NFL Draft selection was clearly a Frank Reich decision

The New York did end up selecting a quarterback on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft, but it wasn't the one many expected. After using the No. 103 pick on Florida State defensive tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. to help stop the run, Darren Mougey traded two picks to move up to No. 110 overall and select Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik.

Klubnik has already gone out on the warpath and professed how excited he is to get to work in New York. Klubnik has asked offensive coordinator Frank Reich for the playbook and said that his new coach has been working with him on installing the offense.

Considering how this pick was viewed as a reach by some, the decision to move up in the order to select Klubnik is looking more like a directive that came straight from Reich himself. Will his scouting eye prove prophetic? Time will tell.

Jets drafting Cade Klubnik was seemingly directed by Frank Reich

The Jets are banking on the former top recruit playing like he did in 2024 (where he threw 36 touchdown passes against just six interceptions) instead of his 2025 campaign (16 touchdowns against six interceptions). To Klubnik's credit, many players on both sides of the ball, like Peter Woods and TJ Parker, saw their stock slip in a poor 2025 Tigers season.

Klubnik doesn't have the explosive arm talent needed to become a high-end starter, and his size at 6-1 and 207 pounds is small for the NFL. He hasn't shown the ability to make plays under pressure beyond taking off to run, which is something he will need to work on.

Klubnik's accuracy is what is going to push him to success in the pros. With solid ball placement, great athletic ability, and a willingness to challenge defenses down the field, a scheme that isn't as outdated as what Dabo Swinney installed could lead to some success for Klubnik.

Reich seemingly broke with one of his past trends, as he has historically placed a great deal of emphasis on bigger pocket-passing quarterbacks. Be it because of his football brain or athleticism, Reich has taken a shine to Klubnik. Klubnik may start the season as the third-string quarterback if a veteran addition is brought to town.

The Jets have historically been a black hole for Day 3 quarterbacks, but their decision to trade up for Klubnik suggests that this team has more invested in him than most other Day 3 dart throws. Reich's evaluation of Klubnik had better be a wise one.

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