Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar has already announced his intention to return to school next year. However, recent reports suggest that a strong playoff run in the College Football Playoffs could push him into the 2025 NFL Draft.
On Tuesday, Allar and the Nittany Lions defeated Ashton Jeanty and the Boise State Broncos 31-14 to advance to the semifinals of the 12-team playoff field.
Social Media Discusses Drew Allar’s Football Future
Popular NFL Draft football analyst Dane Brugler outlined on X (formerly known as Twitter) that though Allar had intended to return to Penn State next season, a strong final few games in the playoffs could make NFL franchises make a move for the talented college quarterback.
“I know Drew Allar ‘intends’ to return to Penn St. in 2025. But… There are several NFL GMs who believe Allar could enter the 2025 NFL Draft with a strong playoff run. Teams are still heavily scouting him for the 2025 class,” Brugler explained.
I know Drew Allar "intends" to return to Penn St. in 2025.
But…
There are several NFL GMs who believe Allar could enter the 2025 NFL Draft with a strong playoff run. Teams are still heavily scouting him for the 2025 class.
— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) January 1, 2025
Allar completed 13 of his 25 passes for 171 yards and scores in the win, headlined by a beautiful deep pass that reminded teams of what they’d miss if he returned to Happy Valley.
In a class without a widely-hailed elite passing prospect, Allar has the opportunity to play himself into the QB1 spot on some team’s board, even if he ultimately decides to run it back with Penn State.
Allar’s Future Outlook Amid 2025 NFL Draft Speculation
Allar has enjoyed a noteworthy season as the starting quarterback of the Nittany Lions. On the season, he has amassed 3,192 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions. In addition, he has added 285 rushing yards and six scores on the ground.
In December, Allar detailed his intention to stay with Penn State for another year, despite the strong campaign. This decision may allow Allar to hone his skills and improve his draft stock in time for the 2026 NFL Draft.
In Pro Football Network’s recent 7-round 2025 NFL Mock Draft by Jacob Infante, Allar was not selected — a testament to his decision, rather than his talent. Allar has ample reasons to stay in school, given his proximity to a championship, NIL funding, and a path to development without the pressures of the NFL.
However, Allar’s stock may not improve during the 2025 season. The quarterback class projects to be stronger next year, meaning adversity could have a greater influence on where he lands.
Penn State is now two wins away from winning a national championship. The Nittany Lions’ success, and Allar’s hand in it, could sway his NFL Draft decision. The deadline for underclassmen to declare for the NFL Draft is Jan. 15.