While Drew Allar continues to rise as one of the top quarterbacks in college football, it’s his leadership off the field that’s earning just as much admiration. The Penn State signal-caller has quietly taken the reins of a growing community outreach initiative, further cementing his role as the face of the Nittany Lions program—and a role model in State College.
Inspired by the university’s culture of service and shaped by his own experiences as a student-athlete, Allar launched the “Lead Like a Lion” initiative this spring. The program partners with local schools and youth organizations to promote leadership, character development, and mental wellness among young athletes.
“I’ve been blessed with a lot of opportunities through football,” Allar said. “But I’ve also learned that leadership means serving others, especially when no one’s watching. That’s what I want to teach kids—that their voice, their effort, and their kindness matter.”
The initiative has already hosted multiple events, including leadership workshops at local high schools, charity drives for underprivileged families, and even quarterback clinics where Allar and his teammates mentor aspiring young athletes. The effort has not gone unnoticed.
“He’s more than a quarterback—he’s a community builder,” said Coach James Franklin. “Drew’s maturity and character have always stood out, and what he’s doing off the field just confirms why we’re so proud to have him leading this team.”
Allar’s off-field efforts have coincided with growing national recognition for his performance between the lines. This week, FOX Sports analyst Joel Klatt ranked Allar as a Top-5 quarterback in college football, pushing back on some of the criticism Allar has faced in recent months.
“Drew Allar has gotten a bad rap from a lot of people,” Klatt said on his podcast. “But when you look at the tape, the arm talent, the poise, and the decision-making—he’s among the best in the country. Penn State fans should be really excited.”
Klatt’s praise has helped shift the national conversation around Allar, who has quietly amassed solid numbers and shown notable growth in his leadership and composure during big games. While he may not always grab headlines with flashy plays, his consistency and presence have made him indispensable to Penn State’s offense.
The convergence of Allar’s rising football stardom and his impactful community work has made him one of the most respected figures in Happy Valley. He’s proving that being a top-tier quarterback isn’t just about arm strength or stats—it’s about character, compassion, and the willingness to lead by example.
“I’m honored by the recognition,” Allar said in response to Klatt’s comments, “but the real wins are the ones that happen off the field—when a kid walks away believing in themselves a little more than they did before.”
With the heart of a lion and the poise of a leader, Drew Allar is showing that greatness at Penn State goes far beyond game day.
