Drew Allar Shines in NFL Debut

Steelers rookie quarterback Drew Allar made a strong impression Thursday night, recording three touchdowns in Pittsburgh’s 28-9 preseason win over the Packers.

The third-round pick entered during the second half, with his first NFL (preseason) pass turning into a 75-yard gain to rookie Kaden Wetjen. Two plays later, Allar finished it himself on a 3-yard rushing touchdown.

https://x.com/steelers/status/2088072232320795085

The following drive, Allar led the Steelers on another long touchdown drive, connecting with Wetjen for his first passing touchdown. Allar wasn’t done yet, finding paydirt for a third consecutive touchdown drive, this time to Riley Nowakowski.

https://x.com/steelers/status/2088078355585175611

Allar finished his debut, completing 10 of 13 passes for 153 yards, 3 total touchdowns, and 0 turnovers, earning a 154.8 passer rating.

It was an encouraging start for Allar, who had not played since suffering a season-ending broken ankle at Penn State last October.

Even Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy was impressed, praising his young QB, saying postgame, “I thought Drew played very, very well.”

Pittsburgh selected Allar in the third round of the 2026 Draft to be developed by future Hall of Fame QB Aaron Rodgers. With Rodgers saying the 2026 season will be his last, Allar could be in position to take over the reins next year.

Now, let me slow down, as it’s just one preseason appearance, but leading three consecutive touchdown drives in your first NFL action shouldn’t be scoffed at either.