Drew Allar, the talented quarterback for Penn State, has made headlines recently with his announcement to return for the 2025 season ahead of the College Football Playoff. However, as the playoff unfolds, questions arise about whether that decision might change. His impressive performances have sparked discussions about the possibility of declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft, especially considering the current landscape of quarterback talent available.
Allar’s Playoff Performance
Allar has showcased his skills in the playoff, raising eyebrows and expectations. His strong showing, particularly in the early rounds, has led to speculation about his future. A standout performance against a formidable Notre Dame defense in the Orange Bowl could significantly enhance his draft stock, regardless of whether he decides to enter the draft this year or wait until 2026.
The demand for franchise quarterbacks is at an all-time high, and with a limited pool of top-tier talent available in the upcoming draft, Allar’s name is certainly in the mix. His ability to excel under pressure could make him a hot commodity for teams looking to secure a reliable signal-caller.
Mixed Opinions Surrounding Allar
Before his decision to return for the 2026 season, Allar faced a range of opinions from NFL evaluators. Some viewed him as a first-round prospect, while others had him pegged as a Day 2 selection. This mixed feedback can be seen as a double-edged sword; it indicates that while there are varying assessments of his talent, it only takes one team to fall in love with his potential to push him up the draft board.
Notably, SN’s Vinnie Iyer ranked Allar as the No. 61 overall prospect on his big board prior to his announcement to stay in college. This ranking highlights the uncertainty surrounding his draft status, which could shift dramatically depending on his playoff performances.
What Could Change Allar’s Mind?
If Allar continues to shine in the playoff and solidifies himself as a near-certain first-round pick, it may prompt him to reconsider his plans. The allure of entering the draft and potentially being one of the top quarterbacks selected could be too tempting to resist. However, he must weigh this against the benefits of returning to college football—such as NIL opportunities and the chance to further develop his skills and draft stock in 2025.
The stakes are high, and Allar’s decision could have significant implications for his career trajectory. If he believes he can elevate his game and secure a higher draft position next year, sticking to his original plan may be the wisest choice.
Top QBs in the 2025 NFL Draft
As the conversation around Allar unfolds, it’s essential to consider who else is in the running for the 2025 NFL Draft. Currently, Allar is not planning to enter the draft, but several other quarterbacks are vying for attention. According to the NFL Mock Draft Database’s consensus rankings, here are the top-ranked quarterbacks:
| Rank | QB | School | Overall rank |
| 1 | Shedeur Sanders | Colorado | 2 |
| 2 | Cam Ward | Miami | 3 |
| 3 | Jalen Milroe | Alabama | 27 |
| 4 | Carson Beck | Georgia | 47 |
| 5 | Quinn Ewers | Texas | 51 |
| 6 | Jaxson Dart | Ole Miss | 97 |
| 7 | Dillon Gabriel | Oregon | 118 |
| 8 | Riley Leonard | Notre Dame | 151 |
| 9 | Kyle McCord | Syracuse | 152 |
| 10 | Will Howard | Ohio State | 166 |
Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward are currently viewed as the only surefire first-round picks, which adds to the intrigue surrounding Allar’s potential decision. If he performs well in the playoffs and decides to declare, he could very well position himself as the third quarterback off the board.
Looking Ahead
As the College Football Playoff continues, all eyes will be on Drew Allar. His performances could not only shape his future but also influence the quarterback landscape for the upcoming NFL Draft. Will he stick to his plan and return to Penn State, or will the allure of the NFL prove too strong?
The excitement surrounding Allar’s journey is palpable, and fans will be eagerly watching to see how this story unfolds. With so much at stake, the next few weeks could be pivotal for his career and the teams looking to secure a franchise quarterback. The world of college football is buzzing, and Drew Allar is at the center of it all.
