Cade Klubnik’s comments following Clemson’s loss to Texas were less clear than many Tiger fans might have hoped. The junior quarterback, who delivered a strong performance with 336 yards and three touchdowns in his hometown, was asked about his return to Clemson next season. He chose not to provide a direct answer, instead focusing on the emotions of the moment.
“I’m just trying to deal with the emotions of tonight,” Klubnik said. “I just played my last football game with a lot of these guys, so I’m not really thinking about me right now. I’m just thinking of all the relationships that I have built over the last three years.”
Head coach Dabo Swinney later shared that Klubnik had spoken to the team in the locker room, expressing how much the season meant to him and calling it “the most fun he has ever had playing football.”
This uncertainty about Klubnik’s future is concerning for Clemson fans, especially as they look ahead to the 2025 season. If he returns, Clemson would likely be a favorite to win the ACC and be among the top teams nationally. However, if Klubnik decides to leave, it could significantly impact the program’s future.
Clemson’s offense looks poised to be one of the best in the country in 2025, especially with nearly all the starters returning on the offensive line and talented wide receivers like freshmen Bryant Wesco and T.J. Moore. There is also a chance that Antonio Williams could return for another season.
While there are questions surrounding the defense, the offense could be elite, but much depends on whether Klubnik returns. As of now, his commitment for next season remains unclear.
