"We Are Ecstatic": Steelers Source Leaks Organizational Stance On Drew Allar

The Pittsburgh Steelers used their 76th overall pick to draft Penn State quarterback Drew Allar. In all honesty, this pick is not as bad as many reacted to at first, and fans are starting to really come around to it. Of course, the general consensus is still mixed, as some still remember Allar’s talent and what once made him viewed as a generational prospect. However, the fall off was a bit concerning and it led to hurting his draft stock.

The main concern with Allar is simply how his college career ended and what led to him falling from a potential first overall pick to a 76th overall selection. Obviously, the injury played a major role in that decline, and Allar is confident he is past it and has grown through the experience. From a pure talent standpoint, Pittsburgh believes there is still significant upside if he develops in the right system.

After Pittsburgh made the pick, one Steelers source reportedly told Breiden Fehoko their honest thoughts about the controversial move. While reactions around the league remain split, the organization appears more unified internally, believing Allar’s upside makes the gamble worth it despite the concerns surrounding his final college season.

"We may have the steal of the draft in Drew [Allar]," sources said. "A once mocked top-3 overall pick just fell to us in the 3rd. We are ecstatic."

It’s true that just a couple seasons back, the hype and conversations around the Steelers drafting Allar suggested they would have to spend a premium pick to get him. Instead, he fell into the third round, which is now being viewed as strong value. In the 2025 NFL Draft, Pittsburgh did something similar when they selected Will Howard in the sixth round. Now the two will battle it out in Pittsburgh, while the wait for Aaron Rodgers continues.

The Steelers also drafted Mason Rudolph 76th overall in the 2018 NFL Draft, and he ultimately developed into a career backup. The hope with Allar is at least that level of production, though many will expect more given his raw talent and upside. The biggest questions around him are between the ears, with some around the league wondering about his leadership and whether he truly has that 'it factor' needed to elevate a franchise quarterback.

Steelers Banking On Iron To Sharpen Iron At QB

The injury clearly played a role in his development, but it also appears to have matured him. Allar now enters Pittsburgh ready to compete with Howard for the opportunity to become the face of the franchise in a new era under Mike McCarthy. The Steelers are banking on competition bringing out the best in both quarterbacks as they try to find their long-term answer under center.

The Steelers are still hopeful that Rodgers will return for one more season in 2026, which adds another layer to their quarterback plan. In the meantime, they are banking on 'iron to sharpen iron' with Allar and Howard competing for reps and development time. Allar brings higher upside, while Howard offers steadiness and toughness. 

Pittsburgh believes the internal battle, paired with Rodgers potentially bridging the gap, could position the team well for both the short and long term. This approach also keeps the roster flexible, ensuring Pittsburgh is prepared for any outcome at the quarterback position moving forward.

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