"Want To See What He Can Do": Steelers Rookie Making Noise Amid Promising First Impression

The Pittsburgh Steelers had an eventful draft during the 2026 offseason. It was hosted in Pittsburgh, so there was a ton of fanfare with former Steelers players throughout the city and other things of that nature. The organization also went into the event with 12 selections, which was the most in the league. The franchise made a few moves, so only 10 total picks were made, and the rookie class has been participating in rookie minicamp, Organized Team Activities (OTAs), and mandatory minicamp. Some of the rookies have already been making a name for themselves, while others have struggled a little bit.

One rookie who has been receiving rave reviews is cornerback Daylen Everette. He was Pittsburgh's second third-round pick, and he has kind of flown under the radar since being drafted. He played his college football at Georgia, which has primed him for the NFL. He gained a ton of meaningful experience while playing in big games in the SEC, which is the best way to get prepared for the league. He has made a name for himself throughout OTAs and minicamp.

Beat writer Ray Fittipaldo joined 93.7 The Fan on Wednesday morning, and he was asked about what the rookie class has looked like up until this point. He was also asked about how it seems the coaches feel about the new rookies, and he had great things to say about Everette in both regards.

"The other guys that didn't have as much hype I don't think after the draft, who got to get a lot of run in with the first-team defense was Daylen Everette," Fittipaldo said. "I think they had a purpose for that. You know, Joey Porter didn't practice a whole heck of a lot, so they just threw him in there. He flashed sometimes and there were other times where he would go up against these established guys, and it wasn't good for him. I really like the fact that they threw him out there into the fire. Now he knows what he has to improve upon. He has a chance to come back and make an impact."

Joey Porter Jr. currently not practicing as he awaits his contract extension, has opened up some opportunities for a player like Everette. Fittipaldo explained that he has looked really good at times, but the veterans have been able to get the best of him. This opportunity has allowed him to learn what he needs to improve upon prior to training camp.

Everette has the versatility to play on the inside and outside, but it seems like the coaching staff has been having him focus on playing on the outside. He will likely be competing for the third outside cornerback spot with Asante Samuel Jr., while Porter and Jamel Dean will be the two starters. Regardless, Fittipaldo is excited to see Everette at training camp.

"So if there was one guy who was kind of off of my radar when spring practices began, but now he's on my radar, and I want to see what he can do in Latrobe, that's Daylen Everette for me," Fittipaldo said.

Training camp is a lot different from any spring practice, and there is a chance that Everette will be seeing less reps by then if Porter is able to get his extension done. The rookie will have to find a way to make the most of limited opportunities.

Steelers Don't Necessarily Need Daylen Everette To Be Better Than Asante Samuel Jr.

The third cornerback spot on the outside is likely going to come down to Samuel and Everette, and Samuel should have the leg up as the experienced veteran. However, Samuel is making roughly $4 million on a one-year deal. If the two are even remotely close, there is a chance the coaching staff might opt to go with Everette so the organization can explore trade options for Samuel or release him.

What do you think about these comments from Fittipaldo? Let me know on X, @brogannoey!

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