What's Happening?
The Pittsburgh Steelers have selected Daylen Everette, a cornerback from Georgia, as their third-round pick, 85th overall, in the 2026 NFL Draft. Everette, standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 196 pounds,
has been a standout player during his college career. In 2025, he recorded 50 tackles, one interception, and led his team with 10 pass breakups. Over his four-year college career, Everette made five interceptions and 150 tackles, with 107 being solo stops. He was recognized as a first-team All-SEC player by the Associated Press in his senior year and was a third-team selection by coaches in both his junior and senior years. Everette's performance at the NFL combine was notable, with a 40-yard dash time of 4.38 seconds, a broad jump of 10 feet, 4 inches, and a vertical jump of 37.5 inches. His versatility on the field is highlighted by his ability to play both inside and outside positions, as noted by draft analyst Lance Zierlein.
Why It's Important?
Daylen Everette's selection by the Steelers is significant as it addresses the team's need for a strong defensive backfield. His proven track record in college, including his ability to break up passes and make crucial tackles, suggests he could be a valuable asset in the NFL. The Steelers, known for their strong defensive strategies, may benefit from Everette's agility and size, which could enhance their pass defense capabilities. His selection also reflects the team's focus on building a robust defense to compete in the highly competitive AFC North division. For Everette, this opportunity marks the beginning of his professional career, where he can further develop his skills and potentially become a key player for the Steelers.
What's Next?
As Daylen Everette transitions to the NFL, he will need to adapt to the faster pace and higher skill level of professional football. The Steelers' coaching staff will likely focus on integrating him into their defensive schemes and helping him adjust to the demands of the NFL. Everette's performance in training camp and preseason games will be crucial in determining his role on the team. If he can quickly adapt and demonstrate his college-level performance, he may earn significant playing time in his rookie season. The Steelers will be monitoring his progress closely, as they aim to strengthen their defense for the upcoming season.
