Why Steelers are 'uninstalling' everything QB Drew Allar learned at Penn State

Now, after seeing the mechanics he's displayed in camp, the Steelers are trying to implement some changes. It's been described in some ways, as though Allar is a computer, needing to clear his cache and upload new fundamentals to succeed at the next level.

SportsCenter had a recent segment on the Steelers' camp with updates on what Allar was learning thus far.

"They are essentially uninstalling everything he's learned and re-uploading their own methods and fundamentals and mechanics with Allar," said ESPN's Brooke Pryor.

In terms of the specific pieces to improve in his game, Pryor cites his footwork.

"They're working on widening his space, keeping him off of his toes," Pryor said.

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Drew Allar Penn State career

In high school, Allar was the No. 1 overall prospect in his class, with many schools vying for his services. Allar chose Penn State, but never truly lived up to the hype of a five-star QB. He was a two-time All-Big Ten honorable mention, but never won any major awards at the conference or national level.

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Who was Drew Allar's QB coach at Penn State?

Allar had two quarterback coaches in his time at Penn State. During his first two seasons in 2022-23, then-offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich doubled as the QBs coach.

In 2024-2025, quarterbacks coach Danny O'Brien taught Allar what he knows. In his first season under O'Brien, Allar set a career high in passing yards and completion percentage. He finished third in the Big Ten that season in passing yards.

Drew Allar contract details

Allar's rookie contract with the Steelers is worth about $7.1 million over four years, according to Spotrac.

He is not expected to start right away in Pittsburgh, but rather to develop over time.