Jets relying on Cade Klubnik to avoid 'bummer' result for backup QB competition

1 day ago 3

The New York Jets don't exactly have a ton of optimism for the 2026 season as a postseason contender. But there are plenty of individual talents worth getting excited about.

Just not likely at the quarterback competition. At least, outside of Cade Klubnik. The rookie fourth-rounder from Clemson has a chance to compete for the backup QB job in New York this summer, and this is a more important competition than it might seem.

As Rich Cimini of ESPN notes, the Jets are relying on Klubnik to win the QB2 job behind Geno Smith in 2026 to avoid a "bummer" outcome of relying on Bailey Zappe or turning to some other veteran.

Jets need Cade Klubnik to win QB2 job to avoid 'bummer' outcome

"Rookie Cade Klubnik is the fan favorite because ... well, the success-starved fan base is desperate for a QB of the future," Cimini writes. "No offense to Bailey Zappe, but it would be a bummer if he wins the No. 2 job."

While the Jets could turn to Brady Cook as the QB2, all signs are pointing towards the competition for the backup job going to either Klubnik or Zappe.

Ideally, the Jets can confidently declare Klubnik as the backup quarterback after training camp and the preseason. If he wins that job, then there could be some real optimism for the Jets at the QB position.

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Even if he doesn't turn into the future franchise QB, just having a young player who has some upside would be a breath of fresh air for the Jets franchise.

That's why Klubnik winning the backup QB job in 2026 is so important. If it's Zappe, it's a sign that the Clemson QB is not the answer, let alone a player that fans can have optimism for.

This QB competition might not draw the same attention as some others around the league, but if Klubnik earns the QB2 job, then the fanbase can have something to look forward to during the season.