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Pittsburgh Steelers draft Drew Allar amid uncertainty over Aaron Rodgers' future

Apr 25, 2026, 5:45 AM30
(Update: Apr 27, 2026, 5:51 AM)
American football player (born 1983)
American football quarterback
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Pittsburgh Steelers draft Drew Allar amid uncertainty over Aaron Rodgers' future

  • The Pittsburgh Steelers selected quarterback Drew Allar in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft to bolster their quarterback lineup.
  • Aaron Rodgers' status with the team remains unclear as he considers retirement.
  • The Steelers' decision to draft Allar highlights their focus on long-term planning for the quarterback position.
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In the 2026 NFL Draft held over the course of several days, the Pittsburgh Steelers made a significant move by selecting quarterback Drew Allar from Penn State in the third round. This decision has raised questions regarding the future of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, whose status for the upcoming season remains uncertain. With discussions about Rodgers' potential retirement looming, the Steelers' choice to draft Allar indicates a proactive approach to their quarterback situation. They already have two quarterbacks on the roster, Mason Rudolph and Will Howard, both of whom are in the competition for the starting position, depending on Rodgers' decision. Mike McCarthy, the new head coach of the Steelers, addressed the influence Rodger's situation had on their decision to bring in Allar. He clarified that the drafting of Allar was driven by the team's desire to strengthen their quarterback room and not solely by Rodgers' uncertain future. The Steelers are aiming to build depth and adaptability within their roster as they navigate the complexities of their quarterback dynamics. Dan Graziano, an analyst with ESPN, has weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Allar could emerge as the starting quarterback sooner than expected. He pointed out that Allar possesses considerable talent, having thrown for over 7,400 yards and 61 touchdowns at Penn State, and cited potential development under McCarthy as key in addressing the Steelers' ongoing quarterback issues. The Steelers are looking to create a competitive environment for their quarterbacks, emphasizing growth and performance, regardless of whether Rodgers chooses to return for what could potentially be a farewell season. As the team continues to prepare for the upcoming season, the drafting of Allar signifies their intent to prioritize long-term planning while still considering the immediate implications of current players and their situations.

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