Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Steelers Draft QB Drew Allar, Roethlisberger Unsure

5/1/2026

44 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Steelers Draft Allar

The Steelers drafted quarterback Drew Allar in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Ben Roethlisberger said he is unsure whether he loves or hates the pick.
He said Allar never “jumped off the page”, while Will Howard did.
The quarterback room includes Allar, Will Howard and Aaron Rodgers, who got a tender on April 28.
Mike McCarthy praised his size and arm after a broken ankle limited Allar’s college season to six games.

Summary

McCarthy Refines Allar

Coach Mike McCarthy will use his QB-coaching expertise to improve quarterback Allar’s footwork.
Allar spent most of his 2025 ankle-injury rehab on foot-placement drills.
Scouts warned Allar’s timing with receivers falters in big games.
Coach Terry Smith said Penn State’s rotating coordinators and limited receivers hampered Allar.
Coach Tom Arth affirmed Allar has the draft’s strongest arm and needs a tailored system.

History

Historical Context

The 1974 NFL Draft took place while the United States grappled with President Nixon’s resignation on August 9, 1974 and West Germany celebrated its FIFA World Cup victory. In 2026 the Pittsburgh Steelers selected rookie quarterback Drew Allar, hoping veteran coach Mike McCarthy can nurture a talent reminiscent of that transformative era.

1 of 3

Steelers Draft Allar

The Steelers drafted quarterback Drew Allar in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Ben Roethlisberger said he is unsure whether he loves or hates the pick.
He said Allar never “jumped off the page”, while Will Howard did.
The quarterback room includes Allar, Will Howard and Aaron Rodgers, who got a tender on April 28.
Mike McCarthy praised his size and arm after a broken ankle limited Allar’s college season to six games.

1 / 3