When the New York Jets walked into the 2026 NFL Draft, they knew their quarterback depth chart needed reinforcements. They found their man on Day 3, selecting Clemson Tigers star Cade Klubnik with the 110th overall pick. But according to his college head coach, Dabo Swinney, talent alone won't be enough to thrive in the Big Apple.

"He's a two-time ACC championship MVP with a couple titles, but he's also had some moments that were not so good," Swinney told ESPN's Adam Rittenberg. "All those things make you better if you're made of the right stuff, and it has made him better. Especially going to a place like New York, you better have some thick skin."

Swinney's message is clear: surviving in New York requires more than just arm strength and mobility. It demands resilience. And Klubnik, who led Clemson to back-to-back ACC titles, has already proven he can bounce back from adversity. Those tough moments in college—the interceptions, the tough losses—have shaped him for the pressure cooker that is Jets football.

While Klubnik likely won't be the Week 1 starter, don't be surprised if he sees the field at some point during the 2026 season. When he does, mistakes will happen. A missed throw. A costly sack. An interception. That's the reality of NFL quarterbacking. But Swinney believes his former pupil has the mental toughness to shake it off and keep firing.

"I think Cade has a chance to be an outstanding pro," Swinney added. For Jets fans who have watched their franchise chase a franchise QB for decades, that vote of confidence carries weight. Whether Klubnik becomes the answer or simply a reliable backup, one thing is certain: he'll need that thick skin from Day 1.