Mock draft season is never too early, even if the next college football snap is months away. In the most recent “Way-Too-Early 2026 NFL Mock Draft” from Ethan Woodie of NFL Trade Rumors, the Detroit Lions selected Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik at No. 29 overall.
Yes, you read that correctly—a quarterback.
Why It Matters
Before Lions supporters start flipping over their Honolulu blue coffee tables, let me clarify: this does not imply Jared Goff will be replaced. The franchise quarterback recently inked a four-year agreement and is firmly established as Detroit’s leader. But acquiring a high-potential talent like Klubnik,
As Woodie describes it:
, who now has the third-best Heisman Trophy odds entering the 2025 college football season, is a long-term strategic play.
As Woodie describes it:
“The Lions probably won’t need a quarterback. However, Klubnik is one of several quarterback prospects who face a broad range of outcomes this season. If he improves on his performance last season, he’ll be a factor in this range, as he possesses great arm talent and agility for the next level.”
That is a good evaluation. Klubnik, a former five-star recruit, has demonstrated flashes of greatness at Clemson. With a strong year, he may easily be one of the top picks in next year’s draft class.
The Big Picture
The Lions’ roster is already one of the deepest in the NFL, and with Goff established, spending a late first-round choice on a developmental quarterback would not be surprising. The front office may consider Klubnik as a potential future starter or a desirable trade asset in the future, similar to Green Bay’s approach with Jordan Love or the Chiefs’ approach with Patrick Mahomes (who spent a year behind Alex Smith).
Plus, let’s be honest: good franchises plan ahead. Brad Holmes has demonstrated a willingness to take risks in order to achieve long-term success.
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