As the Pittsburgh Steelers navigate the 2025 NFL season, their quarterback situation remains uncertain. With discussions of him signing with the Steelers from free agency, veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, now 41, was brought in to provide stability and leadership. But the four-time NFL MVP would only shoulder the team’s legacy for one or two years. In that, his early performances have raised questions.
Despite respectable statistics of five touchdowns, 447 passing yards, and a 63.5% completion rate, analysts have pointed out inconsistencies in Rodgers’ play. Experts such as Kurt Warner and Herm Edwards have observed signs of discomfort in the pocket and flaws in his mechanics. Instead of his current style, Warner and Edwards suggested that the veteran’s presence has not yet delivered the stabilizing impact the Steelers had hoped for.
To talk about their QB room, Mason Rudolph and Will Howard, and backing up Rodgers. Rudolph has experience, but limited opportunities have marked his tenure with the team. Howard, a promising young talent, is currently on injured reserve and expected to return in Week 6. And with Rodgers’ future uncertain and the team’s long-term quarterback plans in question, the Steelers are reportedly exploring options for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Steelers Reportedly Eye College Quarterback for 2026 NFL Draft
According to NFL reporter Andrew Fillipponi (well-known beat writer), a former NFL general manager indicated during a conversation that the quarterback most likely to be drafted by the Steelers in Pittsburgh in April is a top college prospect from Pennsylvania.
Andrew Fillipponi wrote a post on X on Saturday: “I asked a former NFL GM who, right now, a quarter of the way through the college football season, is the quarterback most likely to be drafted by the Steelers in Pittsburgh in April.” And the GM responded, “Penn State’s Drew Allar,” per Fillipponi. Fillipponi’s source did not specify the GM’s name, but the implication is clear: the Steelers are considering a young talent to succeed Rodgers, potentially.
Drew Allar: A Potential and Rumored Candidate for the Steelers
The quarterback in question is Drew Allar, a standout QB from Penn State University. Standing at 6’5” and weighing 236 lbs, Allar possesses the ideal size and arm strength that NFL teams covet. Scouting reports highlight his ability to generate outstanding velocity with minimal effort and his proficiency in making deep throws, particularly on drive routes.
Drew Allar, Penn State’s senior quarterback, has showcased a blend of physical attributes and refinement in the early stages of the 2025 season. Per ESPN’s data, through three games, he has completed 64.8% of his passes, amassing 626 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception, with a passer rating of 137.3.
However, his performance has been marked by inconsistency, as reflected in his QBR of 38.4, ranking 111th nationally. Analysts have noted that while Allar possesses a strong arm and the ability to make deep throws, his ball placement and accuracy, particularly on intermediate routes, require further development.
Allar’s performance in the 2025 college season has further solidified his status as a top prospect. He has demonstrated consistency and poise under pressure, attributes that are crucial for success at the professional level. Yahoo Sports has reported that Allar’s development throughout the season will be closely monitored by NFL scouts, including those from the Steelers.
Why Would Drew Allar Get Picked Over Other Prospects Ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft?
While the 2026 NFL Draft class boasts several talented quarterbacks, Allar stands out due to his combination of size, arm strength, and football IQ. To some extent, Allar is being compared to Buffalo Bills’ Superstar quarterback Josh Allen. The comparison comes out of Allar’s ability to make plays both within and outside the pocket.
Other quarterbacks in the 2026 draft class, such as LaNorris Sellers and Cade Klubnik, have also shown promise. But they may not possess the same blend of physical attributes and skill set that Allar brings to the table. The Steelers’ scouting department is reportedly (and rumoredly) focusing on Allar as a potential franchise quarterback.
As of now, the Steelers’ position in the upcoming draft is uncertain. Their performance in the remainder of the 2025 season will influence their draft standing. However, if the team is positioned to select a quarterback early in the draft, Allar could very well be their top choice.