Jets Reach for Klubnik, Add QB Depth

On April 30th, the New York Jets made waves in the 2026 NFL draft by grabbing Clemson

quarterback Cade Klebnik in the fourth round.

This three-year starter had a down year in 2025, dropping his stock to a Mosaw as a late

day three pick.

He ended up as just the fifth quarterback taken in the class.

Earlier this week, the Jets jumped ahead of the Denver Broncos to snag him midway through

the fourth, even though no other quarterbacks went until the fifth round.

Turns out, Denver might have been the first to win.

Denver might have been eyeing Clebnik as a backup for Bow Knicks, since Clebnik roomed

with Knicks' younger brother at Clemson last year.

Folks like ESPN's Rich Semini called it a reach, figuring Clebnik was more of a sixth

or seventh round talent.

A lot of scouts agreed, but the Jets weren't taking chances on losing their guy.

Word is, Jets coach Frank Reich fell hard for Clebnik after workouts and strong interviews

down at Clemson.

Reich saw a steep drop off to the next quarterback on the board, so they pulled the trigger.

With Geno Smith, Bailey Zappi, and Brady Book already on the roster, but no real franchise

upside, this adds depth for now.

If Clebnik hits, bonus, otherwise, the Jets gear up for a loaded 2027 quarterback class.