As the Clemson Tigers gear up for the 2025 season, one of the most intriguing questions is whether quarterback Cade Klubnik will take the next step — and potentially enter the Heisman Trophy conversation. Could he become the first Heisman winner in Clemson history?

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Currently, Klubnik holds the third-shortest odds to win the Heisman at +1000 (per DraftKings), trailing only Arch Manning (+700) and Garrett Nussmeier (+900). Both Manning and Nussmeier face tougher schedules than Klubnik — and, notably, Clemson opens the season against Nussmeier’s LSU squad. Manning, meanwhile, remains an unproven starter at the college level.

Last season, Klubnik made significant strides. He looked more decisive and finished the year with 3,639 passing yards, 463 rushing yards, 43 total touchdowns, and just 9 interceptions. Clemson is once again favored to win the ACC, which is important — only four Heisman winners in the last 20 years failed to win either a conference championship or a bowl game.

Entering his third season under Offensive Coordinator Garrett Riley, Klubnik benefits from continuity in the offensive system. Clemson’s schedule gives him a prime opportunity to make an early Heisman statement against LSU, and the regular-season finale against a strong South Carolina team could help leave a lasting impression on voters.

If Cade Klubnik can stay healthy and continue making steady improvements with his experienced Clemson roster, there’s no reason he shouldn’t at least be in the Heisman conversation.