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INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MAR 02: General Manager, Howie Roseman of the Philadelphia speaks to reporters during the NFL Draft Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on March 2, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
The Philadelphia Eagles’ draft plans may be revealing something subtle about their quarterback room.
With reports that the team has been shopping backup Tanner McKee in trade discussions this offseason, Philadelphia could be preparing to bring in a new developmental option behind Jalen Hurts. One name starting to surface in that conversation is former Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik.
Klubnik’s name recently surfaced in The Athletic’s draft coverage, where he was included as a potential Day 3 target for Philadelphia. The mention reinforces that this isn’t just random speculation, but a fit that’s being discussed in league circles.
Klubnik brings a unique profile. He was a consensus five-star recruit and the No. 1 quarterback in the 2022 high school class out of Austin, Texas. At one point, he was viewed as a potential future No. 1 overall pick.
Now, he could be available as a late-round, value developmental option.
The Athletic also floated Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green as another potential option, highlighting his size and dual-threat ability as traits the Eagles could value in a developmental role. Like Klubnik, the inclusion reinforces Philadelphia’s continued focus on building depth behind Hurts.
Why Cade Klubnik Stands Out for Eagles
Even with an up-and-down finish to his college career, Klubnik’s production is hard to ignore.
Across 49 career games at Clemson, he threw for 10,123 yards, 73 touchdowns and just 24 interceptions while completing 64.0% of his passes. His best season came in 2024, when he totaled 3,639 yards and 36 touchdowns to just six interceptions, showing the ceiling that once made him one of the most hyped quarterbacks in the country.
While his numbers dipped in 2025 (2,943 yards, 16 touchdowns), context matters. Clemson dealt with inconsistency around him, including a high drop rate that impacted his efficiency.
There are still traits to work with.
Klubnik operates well in rhythm, shows anticipation on timing throws and has a quick, compact release. He’s also mobile enough to navigate pressure and pick up yards when plays break down. In play-action specifically, he thrived, posting 10 touchdowns, just two interceptions and a 72.7% completion rate.
That skill set fits the structure of the new-look Philadelphia offense.
Why the Eagles Could Make This Move
If McKee is ultimately moved, the Eagles will need a cost-controlled backup with developmental upside. That’s exactly where Klubnik fits.
Philadelphia has consistently prioritized quarterback depth, even with Hurts entrenched as the starter. Adding a former elite recruit with real production aligns with their long-term approach.
There’s also a clear developmental environment in place. Sitting behind Hurts, Klubnik wouldn’t be rushed into action. Instead, he could refine areas like field vision, off-platform consistency and mechanics under pressure, all noted concerns in his evaluation.
And who knows — down the line, he could develop into a starting option.
And if the Eagles follow through on trading McKee, Cade Klubnik suddenly becomes a name that makes a lot of sense.