The Pittsburgh Steelers are likely to put their QB hopes on Cade Klubnik

• The Pittsburgh Steelers may be exploring future quarterback options as uncertainty remains around Aaron Rodgers’ long-term future with the team
• Cade Klubnik, a former starter for the Clemson Tigers, has emerged as a potential draft target after a steady college career
• Analysts suggest the Steelers could draft Klubnik as a developmental QB—possibly pairing him with Rodgers as a mentor if the veteran stays

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a good run in the 2024/2025 season, with the team performing well, not least because of its QB, Aaron Rodgers.

Despite this, though, the Steelers and Rodgers have not reached a deal securing the player’s future within the organization, meaning that Pittsburgh may now be eyeing a fresh prospect, and specifically, Cade Klubnik.

Cade Klubnik is a tempting pick for the Steelers, despite a slowdown in 2025

Klubnik has had a strong career in college, having played as the starter for the Clemson Tigers between 2023 and 2025, and clocking in consistent performance. In 2025, he played fewer games overall, but he still completed 257 out of 392 passes and scored 16 touchdowns with six interceptions. He also clocked in 2,900 yards.

Admittedly, the player is not expected to be a Round 1 NFL Draft pick, but he is still too tempting to pass up on, especially for a team that could be looking to invest in and nurture fresh college talent for the long-run, and in the QB position specifically.

This prediction is borne out by Josh Liskiewitz, a Pro Football Focus analyst, who feels confident that the Steelers would indeed not miss out on the opportunity to draft Klubnik and start working him for future greatness.

While Rodgers may not be confirmed for the team just yet, the possibility of having Rodgers mentor Klubnik is a tempting one, Liskiewitz notes, and argues it could be the key to turning the college prospect into the future success of the team.

This is another key consideration to take. Should Rodgers leave the franchise entirely, Klubnik would have to figure much of the ropesout for himself, rather than have the four-time MVP look over his shoulder and give him practical tips that work.

Klubnik's recent stats will have him as a Round 3 pick, but he may yet achieve greatness under Rodgers

All of this stands to reason. That Klubnik may be left for Round 3 is not exactly surprising, as the QB indeed demurred in 2025 and took things easier, possibly because he was preparing for his career in the NFL, which he is bound to secure.

On a personal note, Klubnik has been a more moderate player vis-à-vis his own ability and sports prowess, choosing not to oversell what he can do in the field, and letting his actions speak for themselves.

In 2025, Klubnik notably suffered two injuries - a sprained right ankle versus Boston College and a quad contusion. He has recovered well, and the quad contusion didn't stop him from playing.

More self-assured players such as Carson Beck, the former Miami Hurricanes QB, and ex-Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia have both expressed confidence that they should be scooped right from the get-go.

Klubnik’s prospects in the NFL are great, and with him taking his foot off the gas pedal in 2025, he may be coming to the 2026/2027 season reinvigorated and ready to learn under the mentorship of an all-time great such as Rodgers. There are still a few uncertainties around this, but things are looking good.

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