Pittsburgh Steelers rookie quarterback Drew Allar is taking advantage of extra practice time during the team's final voluntary OTA sessions this week.
Allar said the period represents a major opportunity because many veterans are absent. Mike McCarthy is emphasizing work with younger players during the sessions. It’s definitely a big week, Allar told reporters Tuesday. He added that he is focusing on mental reps and learning different route concepts against various coverages. The third-round draft pick is using the time to rebuild his mechanics after seeing limited snaps once veterans returned. Allar plans informal sessions next week with his private coach before training camp begins at Saint Vincent College in late July. The Steelers have no plans for Allar to challenge for the backup role, but he will need practice time ahead of possible heavy preseason action.