Steelers add physical Georgia corner in 3rd round

PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – What stood out to Steelers new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham about third round pick Daylen Everette is that he came up big in some of the biggest games. More about the Steelers rookie corner including news conferences with both.

Graham is correct, last season he was voted AP First-Team All-SEC with six tackles against Tennessee, seven against Alabama, returned an interception 30 yards in the SEC Championship against Alabama and had nine tackles and returned a fumble for a touchdown in the Sugar Bowl against Ole Miss. In 2024, Everette led Georgia in interceptions and forced fumbles.

After working primarily on special teams as a freshman, Everette started every game the last three years at corner at Georgia.

“I just think to play this game, you've got to be physical, and that's one thing at Georgia that we prided ourselves in,” Everette said. “Those are our DNA traits. Toughness, composure, connection, resiliency. I feel like that gets you prepared physically for the next level but then also they do a lot of things that will help you prepare mentally.”

He believes that has him ready for the traditional, physical football played by the Steelers defense.

“The seriousness he has about football, the focus he has as a young man,” Graham said of his impressions meeting Everette at his Pro Day. “I was really

impressed by that. And you could just tell there's some grit there about him and a willingness to get better. And I can't wait to get him to Joe [Whitt Jr.] and [Jason Simmons] in terms of those guys coaching him up and seeing where it plays out.”

NFL.com lists Everette has having the potential to develop into a starter at 6’1”, 196 pounds. He ran a 4.38 40 at the NFL Combine with a 37.5” vertical. They break him down as a smooth athlete with good size, length and agility that could work inside or outside with a willingness to be physical. Everette said he worked in the slot as a freshman and in practice. There is concern about his make-up speed and inability to catch up when behind.

Graham said there is no depth chart right now, it’s about a clean slate and showing what you can do.

“If you can get the ball and you show a consistency of getting the ball in practice, preseason we will find a way for you,” Graham said. “It's going to be hard for you not to make the team.”

“I think on the field, just I'm one of those real competitive physical type of players,” Everette said. “I feel like that's what I pride myself in is physicality, and that's what shows up on tape. I think that's what they liked. Off the field, I think they see how good of a kid I am, and I just always try to do things the right way.”