Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh Steelers Eye Quarterback Drew Allar at NFL Combine Amid Uncertainty
2/28/2026, 5:13:56 AM
Steelers' Quarterback Search Intensifies
As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, the team is actively exploring quarterback options while awaiting a decision from veteran Aaron Rodgers regarding his future with the franchise. General Manager Omar Khan has indicated that the Steelers expect to know Rodgers' decision by mid-March, which may influence their draft strategy. In the meantime, the Steelers have met with several quarterback prospects, including Penn State's Drew Allar, at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis.
Drew Allar's College Career and Injury Impact
Drew Allar's college career at Penn State was marked by both promise and adversity. Initially a five-star recruit and the top quarterback prospect in the 2025 class, Allar's senior season was cut short due to a broken ankle sustained during a game against Northwestern on October 11, 2025. This injury not only ended his season but also led to the firing of head coach James Franklin and a disappointing finish for the Nittany Lions, who lost six consecutive games after a strong start.
Despite these challenges, Allar expressed no regrets about returning for his senior year, stating, "I wouldn’t change a thing. Everything happens for a reason." He completed 64.8% of his passes for 1,110 yards, eight touchdowns, and three interceptions in his limited senior season, contributing to a career total of 7,402 passing yards and 61 touchdowns over four years.
Allar's Performance at the NFL Combine
At the NFL Combine, Allar confirmed he would participate in throwing drills but would not engage in other athletic testing. He emphasized his readiness, saying, "If I had to play a game today or tomorrow, I feel like I could go out there and get it done." His performance at the Combine is crucial for his draft prospects, as he aims to showcase his arm talent and processing abilities, which he believes are well-prepared due to his experience at Penn State.
Steelers' Interest in Allar and Other Quarterbacks
The Steelers' formal meeting with Allar is part of a broader strategy to evaluate potential quarterback options. Allar is one of four quarterbacks the Steelers have met with during the Combine, alongside Alabama's Ty Simpson, who is viewed as a potential first-round pick. While Allar's draft stock has fluctuated, he is currently ranked as the No. 120 prospect and No. 7 quarterback on various draft boards.
Khan has stated that the Steelers are open to drafting a quarterback, regardless of Rodgers' decision. With 12 picks in the upcoming draft, including four in the top 100, the Steelers are in a position to make significant moves to secure their future at the quarterback position.
Criticism and Concerns
Despite Allar's talent, there are concerns regarding his production and the impact of his injury on his draft stock. Critics point to his drop in performance metrics during his final season, which may affect how NFL teams perceive him. However, Allar remains focused on his development and the opportunity to prove himself during the pre-draft process.
What's Next for Allar and the Steelers
As the NFL Draft approaches, Allar's performance at the Combine will be pivotal in shaping his future. The Steelers will continue to assess their options, balancing the potential return of Rodgers with the need for a long-term solution at quarterback. The draft, set to take place from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, will be a critical moment for both Allar and the Steelers as they navigate their respective futures.
