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Steelers Coach McCarthy Praises Rookie Allar’s Minicamp Mastery

5/10/2026

Summary

Allar Impresses Coaches

On May 9, 2026, Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy gave rookie quarterback Drew Allar a one-on-one instruction session at minicamp.
Allar was the only quarterback, completed 35 snaps, and impressed the coaching staff.
He fielded focused coaching from offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio and quarterbacks coach Tom Arth after asking many questions.
Coaches praised his footwork and urged him to build his foundation, noting he must handle tempo.

Summary

Allar Gets Reps

The Steelers gave rookie quarterback Drew Allar the most minicamp reps to fast-track his development before the 2027 decision.
Aaron Rodgers will sit out minicamp and Mason Rudolph is slated for limited snaps, signaling reduced veteran roles.
Coach Mike McCarthy said the 2011 CBA practice-time limits hinder quarterback development, recalling his 2008 Green Bay battle between Matt Flynn and Brian Brohm and noting draft position does not guarantee a starter.

Summary

Dunker Starts

Steelers started Gennings Dunker at left guard in rookie minicamp, signaling a possible position shift.
Dunker, a former Iowa tackle, will compete with Spencer Anderson and Brock Hoffman for the left-guard job.
First-round pick Max Iheanachor remained at right tackle despite speculation he might move to the left side.
Coach Mike McCarthy ended minicamp a day early for Mother’s Day, with OTAs set to begin on May 18 after pause.

History

Historical Context

After the Green Bay Packers drafted Matt Flynn in the seventh round (209th overall) of the 2008 NFL draft, he won the backup battle over Brian Brohm and later helped Green Bay win Super Bowl XLV. That 2008 quarterback competition became a model for teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, who now give rookie Drew Allar reps while veteran Aaron Rodgers rests, shaping league-wide rookie development.

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Allar Impresses Coaches

On May 9, 2026, Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy gave rookie quarterback Drew Allar a one-on-one instruction session at minicamp.
Allar was the only quarterback, completed 35 snaps, and impressed the coaching staff.
He fielded focused coaching from offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio and quarterbacks coach Tom Arth after asking many questions.
Coaches praised his footwork and urged him to build his foundation, noting he must handle tempo.

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