The Pittsburgh Steelers’ long-term quarterback outlook remains the franchise’s biggest question, and as draft season approaches, the organization continues to be linked to a wide range of young options. While first-round picks at the QB position would be available, some analysts believe Pittsburgh could instead target value on Day 2, or even early Day 3 of the NFL Draft.
That’s where the connection to Drew Allar has begun to take place.
The former Penn State signal-caller has one of the more intriguing physical profiles in this class, and has high-end arm talent. But inconsistencies, an injury, and developmental questions have led to many to wonder if he’s an option.
According to Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, that uncertainty weirdly, is exactly what makes Allar a logical target for a team like the Steelers, especially if they’re willing to develop a quarterback early in Mike McCarthy’s tenure.
“[Drew Allar]'s a wild card in this draft. I'm sure there will be some coach who will see his size and arm strength and think they can get more out of him,” Fittipaldo said, per Steelers Nation. “I'm guessing he goes in the second round, or early third round... Why not [draft him in the third or fourth round]? Keep taking QBs until you find one.”
Allar spoke about his recovery in November with ESPN’s Pete Thamel, stating that he feels good and was making a full recovery.
"I'm going to be a better version of myself out of this," he said. "The doctors said it's going to be stronger than before because of the type of surgery they did. It won't prohibit me from anything in the future or need to get it redone. A lot of guys have done it and come back. "I'll be able to make a full recovery and not have anything to think about when I come back."
Allar was viewed as a potential No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft coming into the season, but didn't play as well as he hoped and also dealt with that injury. However, if he comes back and does what's needed in the combine and other things, he should be more than fine and would likely be a steal in the later rounds.