The expectations were extremely high for Cade Klubnik when he arrived on the Clemson campus. Three years, later, he’s matched the hype.

Klubnik completed his breakout in 2024, throwing for 3,639 yards, 36 touchdowns and six interceptions. The Texas native also added 463 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground. If there was any doubt, Klubnik dropped the mic with a heroic three-touchdown outing against a dominant Texas defense.

ESPN reranked the 2022 recruiting class and Klubnik flew up 10 spots. A five-star on multiple platforms, Klubnik was No. 29 on ESPN’s board but the hindsight has him up at No. 19.

One of the few players on this list who opted to return to college in 2025, Klubnik was a high four-star and the nation’s top dual-threat quarterback when he signed with Clemson. The Austin, Texas, native was highly decorated at Westlake High School, winning three state titles and going 27-0 as a starter, and we liked his arm strength, compact release and gunslinger mentality. His collegiate career has had some ups and downs, but he’s still one of the most decorated passers in Tigers history and enters 2025 as one of college football’s most recognizable stars.

Heading into 2025, Klubnik is one of a few hopefuls for the Heisman Trophy. If the trajectory continues, he’ll be making a trip to New York at the end of the regular season.