Big Ben and the Rise of Big-Bodied Quarterbacks in Modern Football

Drew Allar, the Penn State quarterback, is drawing comparisons to NFL legend Ben Roethlisberger due to his physical presence and playing style, with analysts noting his “big body that matches the environment” and potential for success at the professional level.

Allar, who has remained in Pennsylvania for the NFL Draft process, is being evaluated by NFL scouts for his quarterback prospects, particularly his physique and ability to thrive in challenging conditions — traits reminiscent of Roethlisberger’s career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Roethlisberger’s Legacy as a Benchmark

Ben Roethlisberger, nicknamed “Big Ben,” played 18 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers after being selected 11th overall in the 2004 NFL Draft. He won two Super Bowls (XL and XLIII), earned six Pro Bowl selections, and led the NFL in passing yards twice (2014, 2018). Over his career, he threw for 64,088 yards and 418 touchdowns, finishing with a passer rating of 93.5.

Roethlisberger will be eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2027 and is widely expected to be a first-ballot inductee. Analysts have noted his ability to generate big plays and withstand pressure in the pocket, traits that are now being referenced in evaluations of emerging quarterbacks like Allar.

Allar’s Development and Draft Outlook

Drew Allar has played college football at Penn State, where he has developed as a quarterback prospect. His decision to stay in Pennsylvania during the NFL Draft process has been highlighted in recent coverage, with streams available on NFL Network, ESPN, ABC, and NFL Plus.

Scouts are evaluating Allar not only for his mechanical skills but also for his physical attributes — specifically his size and ability to perform in varied environments — drawing direct parallels to the prototypical “big man quarterback” archetype exemplified by Roethlisberger.

Context: Quarterback Physique in NFL Evaluation

NFL teams have historically valued quarterbacks with larger frames who can withstand hits, extend plays, and succeed in adverse weather or crowded pockets. Roethlisberger’s career is often cited as a prime example of this model, combining durability, arm strength, and pocket presence to achieve sustained success over nearly two decades.

Current draft analysis frequently references such physiques when assessing prospects, particularly those from programs like Penn State where pro-style offenses and physical play are emphasized. The comparison to Roethlisberger serves as a shorthand for evaluating whether a prospect possesses the tangible tools to handle the rigors of NFL starting quarterback play.

Current Status and Next Steps

As of April 25, 2026, Drew Allar remains in the NFL Draft process, with his status as a Pennsylvania-based prospect continuing to generate attention. No official draft selection has been confirmed at this time, and further evaluations are expected ahead of the draft.