The Pittsburgh Steelers are less than a week away from showcasing their rookie class on the field for the first time. They will welcome the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night as they continue evaluating their roster. Whether it is first-round pick Max Iheanachor, second-round pick Germie Bernard, or even seventh-round pick Robert Spears-Jennings, there is plenty of excitement surrounding this class. One of those rookies is former Georgia Bulldog Daylen Everette, who continues to receive high praise.
Free-agent acquisition Jamel Dean was brought in to provide stability opposite Joey Porter Jr. In the process, he has worked closely with Everette as the rookie continues to develop throughout training camp. Needless to say, Dean had high praise for Everette when asked about him specifically at camp.
"[Daylen Everette] has all the tools to be one of the greatest corners when he gets his opportunity." Dean said.
Everette’s fast start provides opportunity for future
One of the greatest corners of all time? That is very, very high praise. Dean has not only worked with some excellent cornerbacks in Tampa Bay, but he also captured a Super Bowl ring. If there is a defender who knows what it takes to reach those heights, it is Dean.
Everette has received praise from multiple beat writers as well. His strong start could pave the way for bigger opportunities down the road.
Everette is part of a very strong cornerback room in Pittsburgh. The Steelers have impressive depth at the position, highlighted by the early showings of Everette and Asante Samuel Jr. The unfortunate part for Everette is that future opportunities to earn starting snaps likely will not come until 2027 at the earliest. That is simply because the Steelers have so much talent in the room.
However, the former Bulldog could still become an early contributor for the Steelers during his rookie campaign.
Could Everette carve out a rookie role?
His biggest opportunity to get on the field as a rookie could come on special teams. Everette’s athletic ability makes him a prime candidate to earn a legitimate role in 2026. Not only would that give him valuable on-field experience, but it would also allow him to continue developing as he adjusts to the speed of the professional game.
Everette played in one of the toughest conferences in college football, but nothing compares to the NFL level.
Perhaps Everette could impress enough to carve out a role in the dime package with a strong enough preseason. As it stands, though, his defensive snaps will likely be limited unless something significant changes in the Steelers’ cornerback room.
