The Clemson Tigers received tremendous news this offseason as their starting quarterback, Cade Klubnik, announced he will return for the 2025 season. In a short but impactful message on social media, Klubnik shared a picture of himself with the caption: “The story isn’t over. See y’all in 2025.” This announcement was a major relief for both the Tigers and their head coach Dabo Swinney, as they now have their seasoned leader back for another year after a season filled with both challenges and triumphs.
For the Tigers, this is the best news they could have hoped for, as Klubnik had been weighing whether to declare for the NFL Draft or return for his final season in Clemson orange. After two years as the starter, Klubnik’s decision to stay offers Clemson a chance to build upon the momentum they gained throughout the 2024 season. With the departure of some key players and the unpredictable nature of the transfer portal, having a veteran quarterback at the helm is crucial to the Tigers’ plans for the future.
Klubnik’s Decision: A Game-Changer for Clemson
Cade Klubnik’s announcement not only excites the Clemson faithful but also has wider implications for the 2025 college football season. After a rocky start to the 2024 season, Klubnik’s perseverance and performance ultimately led to one of the best campaigns of his career. There were doubts early in the season, particularly after Clemson’s tough loss to the Georgia Bulldogs, when many questioned if Klubnik could handle the pressure of leading a team like the Tigers. Some even wondered if his season was already on the brink of disaster.
However, what followed was nothing short of a redemption story. Klubnik showed his resilience and proved critics wrong by putting together a career-best season. He completed 63.4% of his passes for 3,639 yards, recording 36 touchdowns to just six interceptions. His stellar play helped Clemson secure a berth in the College Football Playoff, and he proved that he could thrive under pressure, even after a difficult start.
In addition to his passing success, Klubnik also made impressive strides as a dual-threat quarterback. He set a career high on the ground, rushing for 463 yards and scoring seven touchdowns. This newfound versatility added another layer to his game, making him even more difficult for opposing defenses to handle. As Klubnik developed as both a passer and a runner, his ability to lead the offense helped elevate Clemson to new heights.
Why Returning Was the Right Decision for Klubnik
Klubnik’s decision to return for his final season is both strategically sound and beneficial for his future prospects. In the era of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness), players like Klubnik now have more opportunities to make money while still playing at the college level. The financial incentives are often enough for players to consider staying in college for an additional year, especially if they can improve their draft stock or cement their legacy as a top-tier college player.
While Klubnik was projected to be a mid-round draft pick had he entered the 2024 NFL Draft, his decision to stay offers him the chance to further develop as a player and significantly improve his draft stock. In recent years, many quarterbacks have used their senior seasons to boost their stock and earn substantial contracts in the NFL Draft. Some examples include Joe Burrow at LSU and Jalen Hurts at Oklahoma, both of whom saw their careers take off after memorable final seasons in college. Klubnik will be looking to follow in their footsteps and position himself as one of the top quarterbacks available in the 2025 NFL Draft.
What’s Next for Klubnik and the Tigers?
Klubnik’s decision to return also has huge implications for the Clemson Tigers heading into 2025. After a disappointing 2024 season, which saw Clemson fall short of their typical expectations, returning their starting quarterback gives them a chance to regain their status as a national powerhouse. The Tigers will need a strong leader to guide them through a tough ACC schedule and into the playoff picture, and Klubnik is the man for the job.
One of the keys to Clemson’s success in 2025 will be Klubnik’s ability to take another step forward. While his 2024 season was impressive, he still has room to grow. As he enters his senior season, he will need to continue improving his decision-making, consistency, and leadership on the field. The Tigers’ offense will likely look to him to take on a bigger role, not only as a passer but also as a leader who can rally his teammates in crucial moments.
In addition to continuing his development as a quarterback, Klubnik will also need to work with his supporting cast to help elevate their play. Clemson’s receiving corps and offensive line will need to step up to provide him with the protection and playmaking opportunities he needs to succeed. If Klubnik can continue to build chemistry with his receivers and develop a consistent offensive rhythm, Clemson could be a serious contender for the College Football Playoff once again.
For Dabo Swinney, having Klubnik back in the fold is a huge boost for his program. Swinney has been known for his ability to develop quarterbacks, and Klubnik represents the type of signal-caller who could bring the Tigers back to national prominence. With a seasoned leader under center and a solid supporting cast, Clemson could be poised for a return to the top of the ACC and the college football landscape.
Klubnik’s Legacy at Clemson
As Klubnik prepares for his final season, his legacy at Clemson will continue to take shape. A standout in high school, his decision to commit to Clemson was met with high expectations, and while there have been some ups and downs along the way, he has already shown flashes of the talent that made him one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in his class. A strong performance in his senior season could cement his legacy as one of the great quarterbacks in the history of Clemson football.
Clemson fans are hoping that Klubnik’s return will not only give them another season to compete for championships but will also allow him to leave a lasting impact on the program. If he can lead the Tigers to a playoff berth and potentially a national title, he will be remembered as one of the program’s all-time greats.
Conclusion
The return of Cade Klubnik to Clemson for the 2025 season is a significant development that has the potential to shape the future of the Tigers football program. After a career-best 2024 season, Klubnik’s decision to stay another year gives him the opportunity to improve his draft stock, help Clemson compete for a national championship, and potentially become one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft. As Dabo Swinney looks to rebuild the Tigers into a playoff contender, Klubnik’s leadership and skill set will be critical in determining Clemson’s success in the coming season. With a chance to further develop his game and leave a lasting legacy at Clemson, Klubnik’s decision to return is one that will be remembered by both Clemson fans and the college football world for years to come.
