The numbers weren’t flashy, but former Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik gave the New York Jets exactly the type of opening performance a rookie quarterback would want.
Klubnik stepped onto an NFL field for the first time Friday night and looked comfortable running the offense, completing five of his seven attempts for 56 yards against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
His night was brief, lasting just two possessions, but New York came away with 10 points during that stretch.
Klubnik helped move the Jets into scoring range on the opening series before the drive finished with a field goal. New York reached the end zone the next time it had the ball, with running back Braelon Allen finishing the possession with a rushing score.
That was enough work for the former Clemson standout, who received the starting assignment with Geno Smith unavailable because of soreness in his foot.
The preseason carries added importance for Klubnik as he tries to establish himself on New York’s quarterback depth chart. Bailey Zappe and Brady Cook are also in the mix for the backup role behind Smith, giving the rookie an opportunity to strengthen his case each time he gets on the field.
New York clearly saw enough upside in Klubnik during the draft process to make an aggressive move for him.
Rather than waiting for its original fourth-round selection, the organization sent picks No. 128 and No. 140 to Cincinnati and jumped to No. 110 to secure the former Clemson quarterback.
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It marked the beginning of a new chapter for a player whose college career included plenty of high points, even though his final season did not do much to help his draft position.
Klubnik spent four years with the Tigers and started 40 games. He left Clemson with 10,123 passing yards, 73 touchdown passes and 24 interceptions, while also contributing 878 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Former Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik impressive in New York Jets debut