Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik has positioned himself as one of college football’s brightest stars, and if he returns for his senior season in 2025, he could achieve what no Tiger has before: winning the Heisman Trophy.
Despite the impressive careers of Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence, Clemson has never produced a Heisman winner. However, ESPN analyst David Pollack believes Klubnik has the potential to break that trend. “I think he’ll stay, and I think Cade Klubnik will be in the Heisman conversation next year. That’s how good I think he is,” Pollack said.
Klubnik’s 2024 season was nothing short of stellar, with over 4,000 total yards, 43 total touchdowns, and just five interceptions. His performance in the College Football Playoff against No. 5 Texas showcased his elite ability, throwing for 336 yards and three touchdowns to keep Clemson in contention despite a limited run game.
“What he did to Texas—Texas gave up four touchdown passes all year. He had three, and he was dropping the deep ball in the bucket, making plays,” Pollack noted.
While there remains speculation about whether Klubnik will declare for the NFL Draft, a return to Clemson in 2025 could solidify his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation and give him a real shot at making Heisman history.
Not the result @ClemsonFB wanted this season
but the Tigers got a DUDE in Cade Klubnik for 2025 pic.twitter.com/fCQq7OiJUT
— David Pollack (@davidpollack47) December 23, 2024