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ESPN Mock Has Clemson QB as No. 1 Pick in '26 NFL Draft
Brian Bishop-Imagn Images

The 2026 NFL draft is still a long way off, but the battle for the top spot is already heating up. And according to ESPN's latest mock draft, a familiar orange-and-purple clad quarterback is leading the charge.

Clemson's own Cade Klubnik is projected as the No. 1 overall pick in ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reid's 2026 NFL Mock Draft, a testament to his breakout 2024 season and his potential to be the next elite quarterback to come out of Death Valley.

Klubnik, who threw for a staggering 3,639 yards and 36 touchdowns last season, has all the tools to be a franchise quarterback at the next level. Reid praises Klubnik's "well-rounded skill set," highlighting his "strong platform" in the pocket and his "mobility to escape pressure."

But it's not all sunshine and roses for the Clemson signal-caller. Reid also notes that Klubnik has "B-level arm strength," and will need to show he can "throw into tight windows this season." This is the kind of critique that can light a fire under a competitor like Klubnik.

The comparison to another top college quarterback, Bo Nix, gives a glimpse into the kind of player Klubnik could become. And with a supporting cast that includes the return of his top three wide receivers, including the No. 7 returning receiver in the nation according to Pro Football Focus, Bryant Wesco Jr., Klubnik has all the weapons he needs to make a serious run at the Heisman and solidify his spot as the top pick.

Already in the top five in Clemson history for career passing yards and touchdowns, another season of lighting up the scoreboard could make Klubnik the consensus No. 1 pick and the next Clemson quarterback to take the NFL by storm. All eyes will be on Klubnik this fall to see if he can live up to the hype and prove he's the real deal.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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