Could Jets QB Cade Klubnik turn out like the 49ers' Brock Purdy?

The New York Jets entered the 2026 NFL Draft needing to select a quarterback prospect.

After meeting with several prospects throughout the pre-draft process, the Jets found their guy. General manager Darren Mougey picked former Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik at No. 110 overall in the fourth round.

The Jets hope Klubnik develops into a long-term solution. Equipped with three first-round picks in 2027, many expect the Jets to eventually target a high-end QB prospect during next year's draft. Klubnik will attempt to convince Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn otherwise throughout his rookie season.

Klubnik was the No. 1 overall pick in way-too-early mock drafts last Spring. The QB (and the entire Clemson program) had a disappointing 2025 season, failing to meet expectations. The Jets believe they found a valuable quarterback in the fourth round. There's more potential to explore.

ESPN believes Klubnik could be this year's Brock Purdy, a late-round quarterback who exceeds expectations and develops into a starter.

"There is a track record of taking highly experienced college players and letting them play," Matt Miller said. "You hate to make the Purdy comparison because it's so overused at this point, but if there's going to be a Purdy in this year's class, it's going to be Klubnik because of the experience, the athletic ability, the arm and the situation."

The Jets would be beyond thrilled if Klubnik developed into this year's (Brokc) Purdy. Veteran quarterback Geno Smith will begin the 2026 campaign as the Jets' starter. Klubnik will attempt to prove that he eventually deserves an opportunity to start before Mougey heads into the 2027 NFL Draft with enough capital to target a quarterback.

This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: ESPN: Jets QB Cade Klubnik could be this year's Brock Purdy