Rams Linked to Clemson Star in Early 2026 Mock Draft
In the ever-evolving world of NFL roster building, the Los Angeles Rams are making headlines in early 2026 mock drafts with a potential game-changing selection: Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik. As the post-Matthew Stafford era looms, speculation has grown around who might lead Sean McVay’s high-octane offense into the next decade. According to multiple reputable mock drafts, Klubnik—long touted as one of college football’s top signal-callers—is emerging as a top candidate for the Rams’ first-round pick.
Cade Klubnik: From Five-Star Recruit to Franchise Hopeful
Cade Klubnik entered college football with a massive spotlight. A five-star quarterback from Austin, Texas, and a product of Westlake High School, Klubnik was heralded as a can’t-miss prospect. By the time he took over as Clemson’s starting quarterback in 2023, expectations were sky-high. After a rocky transition year, Klubnik showed immense growth in the 2024 season, throwing for over 3,600 yards, 36 touchdowns, and completing more than 67% of his passes. Perhaps even more impressively, he added nearly 500 rushing yards, showcasing the mobility and dual-threat capability that modern NFL teams covet.
The Rams have long been known for their innovative offensive schemes, and Klubnik’s fit with McVay’s system makes intuitive sense. McVay favors quarterbacks who can process quickly, make accurate throws on the run, and contribute to a balanced offensive attack. Klubnik, with his quick release, high football IQ, and growing confidence, seems tailor-made for that role.
Matthew Stafford’s Window is Closing
Matthew Stafford remains the face of the Rams’ offense, but he is now entering his age-37 season with a growing injury history. Though he played through numerous ailments in the 2024 season and remained a steady presence under center, there’s little doubt that the Rams’ front office is planning for the inevitable transition.
In many ways, this potential pick of Cade Klubnik mirrors the strategy employed by the Green Bay Packers when they drafted Jordan Love in 2020—an attempt to secure the future before the need becomes desperate. The Rams would likely prefer a year or two of overlap between Stafford and his successor, giving Klubnik time to learn, adjust, and eventually lead.
Other Clemson Stars in the Draft Conversation
While Cade Klubnik has received the lion’s share of attention in connection with the Rams, he’s far from the only Clemson player projected to go early in the 2026 NFL Draft. Defensive lineman T.J. Parker has also surged up draft boards after a dominant 2024 campaign. Parker, a relentless edge rusher with excellent lateral quickness and strength at the point of attack, finished last season with 13.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss.
Many scouts see Parker as a top-10 talent, potentially drawing comparisons to former Clemson stars like Clelin Ferrell and Dexter Lawrence—both of whom were first-round NFL draft picks. If the Rams were to pass on a quarterback in the first round, Parker could be a viable target to bolster their defensive front, particularly after the departures of key veterans in recent seasons.
The Rams’ Roster Reality and Strategic Needs
The Rams’ roster is in an intriguing transitional phase. With aging stars like Aaron Donald having already retired and other veterans nearing the end of their contracts, the team is looking to blend youth with experience. While they made significant progress in the 2024 and 2025 seasons—sneaking into the playoffs as a Wild Card and winning a playoff game in 2025—they know their margin for error is narrowing.
The offensive line, once a strong suit, has shown signs of wear, and the secondary is in need of additional depth. While the Rams could look to fill those needs in later rounds, finding a franchise quarterback or elite pass rusher is usually prioritized in the first round, especially if the opportunity presents itself.
Klubnik’s NFL Projection and Player Comparison
Analysts have drawn comparisons between Cade Klubnik and several current NFL quarterbacks, most frequently to Philadelphia Eagles’ Jalen Hurts and Cincinnati Bengals’ Joe Burrow. Like Hurts, Klubnik brings athleticism and leadership. Like Burrow, he’s known for calm under pressure and excellent pre-snap reads. He’s not without flaws—some scouts have noted he occasionally forces throws under pressure and needs to add more zip to his deep ball—but his upside is enormous.
What makes Klubnik particularly enticing is his mental makeup. Coaches and teammates at Clemson have repeatedly praised his film-study habits, work ethic, and leadership. During high-stakes games in 2024, Klubnik consistently rose to the occasion, leading comeback drives and handling pressure situations with poise.
Sean McVay’s Influence on QB Development
One of the reasons Klubnik-to-Rams speculation has intensified is because of McVay’s reputation as a quarterback whisperer. McVay has gotten the best out of a range of quarterbacks, including Jared Goff, who he led to a Super Bowl appearance, and Stafford, who helped win the franchise’s first title in Los Angeles.
Given the right talent, McVay’s scheme can turn a solid quarterback into a top-tier performer. If Klubnik lands in LA, he’d be walking into one of the most quarterback-friendly environments in the league. The potential to learn behind Stafford while being groomed under McVay’s tutelage is an ideal developmental path.
Draft Position and Ramifications
Depending on the Rams’ performance in the 2025 NFL season, they may need to trade up to secure Klubnik. Early mocks have him going anywhere between the No. 5 and No. 15 overall picks. If the Rams find themselves drafting later than that, they would need to package future picks or players to move up. General Manager Les Snead has shown a willingness to make bold moves in the past, including the blockbuster trade for Stafford in 2021 and multiple trades involving premium draft capital.
The success of such a move would depend not just on Klubnik’s talent, but also on the Rams’ ability to surround him with weapons. Fortunately, LA still boasts a strong receiving corps headlined by Cooper Kupp and rising star Puka Nacua, as well as tight end Tyler Higbee.
How Clemson’s 2025 Season Could Shape the Draft Narrative
Klubnik and Parker’s positions in the draft will be heavily influenced by their 2025 performances. For Klubnik, continuing to improve his pocket presence, deep ball accuracy, and turnover ratio will be key. For Parker, adding weight and maintaining his explosiveness could push him into the top five.
Clemson enters the 2025 season with high expectations. If they can contend for the ACC Championship and a potential College Football Playoff berth, scouts and front offices will be watching closely. Strong performances on a big stage could elevate both players into elite territory.
A Glimpse into the Rams’ Future
It’s still early, but the connection between Cade Klubnik and the Los Angeles Rams in 2026 mock drafts feels more than speculative. It’s rooted in strategic logic, personnel needs, and fit. As Stafford’s career winds down, the Rams have a rare opportunity to secure their quarterback of the future before a full rebuild becomes necessary.
Klubnik, with his pedigree, production, and polish, represents the kind of prospect who could define an NFL franchise’s next chapter. If LA is willing to make the move, the Clemson star might just be wearing the blue and gold come April 2026.
