Penn State quarterback Drew Allar is making headlines with his decision to return for one more season of college football. After a challenging outing in the College Football Playoff semifinal, Allar has opted to stay at Penn State, aiming to enhance his draft stock before potentially entering the NFL.
Allar’s decision comes on the heels of a disappointing performance against Notre Dame, where he struggled significantly. The young quarterback managed only 135 yards and failed to throw a touchdown, culminating in a costly interception that allowed Notre Dame to advance to the championship. This game raised questions about his readiness for the professional level, especially since he was previously seen as a potential first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Instead of declaring for the draft, Allar will now focus on the 2026 NFL Draft class, which features notable talents like Arch Manning and Carson Beck. This decision highlights his desire to improve his game and showcase his skills one last time in college football. Allar was initially projected to be one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 draft, following the likes of Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward. However, his recent performance may have prompted him to reconsider.
Allar’s career at Penn State has been impressive thus far. He was the No. 1 quarterback prospect in the 2022 recruiting class and the No. 3 overall prospect. After serving as a backup during his freshman year, he took over as the starting quarterback in 2023. Over his career, he has passed for 6,302 yards, thrown 53 touchdowns, and recorded only 10 interceptions. Additionally, he has rushed for 564 yards and scored 11 rushing touchdowns. While these numbers are commendable, they may not match the standout performances of other top quarterbacks, which could have influenced his decision to return.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The college football community has been buzzing with mixed opinions regarding Allar’s choice to stay another year. Some fans are optimistic about Penn State’s future, expressing excitement about the potential for a strong season ahead. One fan remarked, "Penn State is gonna be legit next year yet again. Watch out!" Others, however, have pointed out the reality of his situation, noting that his draft stock could have taken a hit after the bowl game loss. As one fan put it, "He has no choice. His draft stock was gonna be in the dirt after that bowl game loss."
Allar himself has acknowledged the need for improvement. After the semifinal loss, he stated, "We didn’t win the game so it wasn’t good enough, it’s plain and simple. I’ll try to learn from it, do everything in my power to get better and just grow from it." This mindset reflects his commitment to development and his desire to lead Penn State to greater heights.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the setbacks, Allar will have the opportunity to build on his skills and lead a talented Penn State team. The Nittany Lions have been impressive this season, defeating teams like SMU and Boise State by a combined 45 points before facing Notre Dame. With a strong recruiting class and key returning players, expectations are high for the upcoming season.
The Nittany Lions’ recruiting efforts have yielded the No. 15 class for 2025, which should bolster their roster and provide Allar with additional support. This is crucial as he prepares for a season that could define his future in football.
Allar’s return to Penn State is not just about personal ambitions; it’s also about leading his team and making a mark in college football. As he gears up for the 2026 NFL Draft, he will have the chance to showcase his growth and skills in front of scouts and fans alike.
Final Thoughts
As Drew Allar embarks on this pivotal season, the anticipation surrounding his performance is palpable. Will he rise to the occasion and improve his draft stock? Can he lead Penn State to a successful campaign? The answers to these questions will unfold as the season progresses.
With the college football landscape constantly evolving, Allar’s journey will be one to watch. His commitment to returning to Penn State reflects not only his aspirations but also the excitement and hope of a fanbase eager for success. As he prepares for the challenges ahead, Allar is poised to make a significant impact in his final collegiate season.
