Jets rookie QB Cade Klubnik named sleeper draft pick with star upside

The New York Jets were always going to nab a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft; the only question was which prospect they would select and at what point in the draft.

At the beginning of Day 3, the Jets made their move, trading up to No. 110 for the right to draft Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik. At the time, there were some eyebrows raised at the decision.

Not only did New York give up multiple draft picks for the right to get the Tigers quarterback, but there wasn't another one selected until the fifth round, signaling that the Jets may not have needed to trade up for his services.

Well, just a few weeks later, no one is batting an eye at the Klubnik draft pick, and that's thanks to his strong first impressions at rookie minicamp and his sneaky potential.

Jets rookie QB Cade Klubnik tabbed as 'sleeper' star

Sports Illustrated's Justin Melo named Klubnik as one of the best sleeper picks from the 2026 NFL Draft and believes the rookie has the potential to be a star.

"It was very impressive to hear Cade Klubnik speak at the podium during the New York Jets' rookie minicamp. He spoke with poise and exuberated the type of leadership required to thrive at the quarterback position. Klubnik will have to showcase a similar comfort level on the field for it to matter, but it's very interesting that the Jets met with essentially every mid-round quarterback in this draft and identified him as the potential steal."

Justin Melo

Klubnik was very impressive in a small sample size at rookie minicamp. Not only was he making throws, according to reporters in attendance, but his leadership and experience really showed.

Not only did Klubnik exude confidence on the field, but his experience off the field was just as impressive. He organized his fellow rookies for a walkthrough at the hotel where they were all staying.

It's not often fourth-round quarterbacks develop into a team's franchise quarterback, but it's not like it's never happened in the history of the league.

Klubnik isn't guaranteed to be a star, of course, but he may just have the potential. After all, it's not that long ago that the Clemson standout was projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the draft.

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