McCarthy Trusted Everette During Bengals Game
The rookie cornerback saw crucial fourth-quarter action during the Steelers' recent contest against Cincinnati.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Football
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Coach Mike McCarthy rotated rookie cornerback Daylen Everette into the game for the entire fourth quarter during the matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. This decision came as veterans Asante Samuel Jr. struggled, allowing two touchdowns throughout the game.
Why it matters
McCarthy noted that Everette has been pushing for playing time through strong performances in practice. The move highlights the staff's willingness to adjust the defensive rotation to address struggles in the secondary.
Rookie cornerback Daylen Everette played the entire fourth quarter against the Bengals after recording interceptions in back-to-back weeks of two-minute drills. Asante Samuel Jr. was benched for the final frame after allowing two touchdowns.
The players
Mike McCarthy
He is the head coach responsible for managing the team's defensive personnel and strategic rotations.
Daylen Everette
He is a rookie cornerback who earned fourth-quarter playing time after demonstrating consistency in practice.
Asante Samuel Jr.
He is a cornerback who struggled against the Bengals, allowing two touchdowns during the game.
Jalen Ramsey
He is a defensive back currently sidelined while dealing with a wrist injury.
Brandin Echols
He is a cornerback who is currently unavailable while in the concussion protocol.
The details
Everette saw significant defensive duty against top receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins during the game. His promotion to the field follows a period where the team has navigated injury concerns, including Jalen Ramsey's wrist issue and Brandin Echols' concussion protocol.
Timeline
Jamel Dean dealt with an ankle injury the week of September 21, 2026.
The Steelers played the Cincinnati Bengals on September 27, 2026.
Mike McCarthy discussed the defensive rotation on September 28, 2026.
The Big Picture
The team's current personnel shuffling follows the established league-wide requirement of managing players like Brandin Echols under the NFL's concussion protocol.
The shift in the fourth-quarter rotation suggests a potential change in the defensive depth chart for upcoming games. Fantasy owners and fans should monitor if Everette continues to see increased snaps at the expense of veteran starters.
The takeaway
Rookie players often earn their roles through consistent practice performance and the inability of veterans to maintain high standards. Pittsburgh fans should expect further defensive adjustments as the team continues to manage various player injuries.
Further reading
For more on the current team roster, visit the Pittsburgh Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Steelers Depot.
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