Exciting news erupted from Clemson this week when quarterback Cade Klubnik confirmed he will return for the 2025 season. The former five-star recruit elevated his game to new heights in 2024, finishing with 3,639 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. But what truly set him apart this year was his transformation into a dual-threat quarterback, rushing for 463 yards and adding seven more touchdowns. His all-around play made him a nightmare for defenses.
Although Clemson’s playoff run ended in a tough 38-24 loss to Texas, making it to the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff was a remarkable achievement. Many had counted them out after a midseason loss to Louisville, but the Tigers bounced back with grit, ultimately securing an ACC Championship win over SMU.
College football analyst EJ Manuel sees a promising future for Clemson in 2025, citing Klubnik’s growth as both a player and a leader. “It’s not just his development—it’s the confidence he’s instilled in his teammates. They know he’s the alpha now,” Manuel explained.
Along with Klubnik’s return, Clemson is stacking up talent. They’ve got an impressive high school recruiting class coming in and managed to avoid the mass transfers that plagued other programs. Only four scholarship players hit the portal, and the Tigers made their first-ever transfer portal splash by adding Purdue’s defensive end Will Heldt.
On top of that, Clemson retained key players like defensive end T.J. Parker and linebacker Sammy Brown, both of whom have star potential. Freshman wide receiver Bryant Wesco Jr. is another rising talent who will make an impact.
Manuel is bullish on Clemson’s 2025 prospects, saying, “Getting a taste of the CFP—and seeing what it takes to go further—will fuel them. That’s something special for 2025.” With a loaded roster and a championship-winning coach in Dabo Swinney, Clemson is primed for a major push next season. The Tigers will undoubtedly be one of the most exciting teams to watch in the coming year.
