Daylen Everette and Dillon Bell Impress in UGA’s OTA Workouts

Former UGA stars Daylen Everette and Dillon Bell stand out in NFL offseason workouts, per ESPN

Former University of Georgia cornerback Daylen Everette and wide receiver Dillon Bell have drawn early praise from NFL teams during their respective offseason workouts, according to ESPN. Both players, who declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, have been described as among the "biggest surprise players" of the offseason by scouts and coaches.

Everette, a third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft by the New York Jets, has returned to the field after a season-ending injury in 2024. His performance in Atlanta Falcons’ voluntary workouts has reportedly exceeded expectations, with one scout telling ESPN, "He’s looked like a different player—more polished, more confident, and with a better read on the QB." The Falcons, who selected Everette in the third round of the 2023 draft, are reportedly monitoring his progress closely, though no official decision on his roster status has been made.

Bell, a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys, has also caught the attention of multiple teams during his workouts with the Arizona Cardinals. According to ESPN, Bell’s route-running and hands have drawn comparisons to former NFL standouts, with one coach noting, "His quickness is elite, and he’s showing the kind of separation that makes him a first-round talent." The Cowboys, who drafted Bell in 2025, have not yet indicated whether they will retain him, but his offseason performance has sparked speculation about a potential trade or roster expansion.

Why the NFL is taking notice
Both players’ standout performances come at a critical juncture in the NFL offseason. With teams evaluating their rosters ahead of the 2026 season, Everette and Bell represent two of the most compelling narratives among draft picks who have exceeded early expectations. Their success in workouts could influence contract negotiations, roster decisions, and even potential trades.

Everette’s return from injury has been particularly closely watched. After missing the entirety of the 2024 season due to a torn ACL, his ability to regain his pre-injury form has been a focal point for the Falcons and other teams. His improved coverage skills and ball-hawking instincts have led some analysts to suggest he could be a top-tier cornerback in the league if he continues this trajectory.

Bell’s rise has been equally impressive. Despite being selected in the second round of the 2025 draft, his offseason workouts have positioned him as a potential first-round talent in future drafts. His ability to create separation and make contested catches has drawn comparisons to former NFL receivers like Tyreek Hill and A.J. Brown, though team decisions will ultimately hinge on his consistency and durability.

What happens next for Everette and Bell?
For Everette, the next steps involve securing a long-term contract with the Falcons or finding a trade destination that values his improved play. The team is expected to make a decision on his future by the end of July, with reports suggesting they may explore a trade if they cannot agree on terms.

Bell’s situation is slightly more fluid. With the Cowboys still evaluating their roster, his offseason performance could push Dallas to consider a trade or roster expansion. If he continues to perform at this level, he may become a focal point in the NFL’s free agency period, which begins in March 2027.

Both players’ trajectories highlight the unpredictable nature of the NFL draft process, where offseason workouts can reshape expectations and alter team strategies. As the 2026 season approaches, their performances will remain a key story for fans and analysts alike.

Key context: UGA’s NFL pipeline
Everette and Bell are part of a growing trend of Georgia Bulldogs making an impact in the NFL. Since 2020, at least 12 former UGA players have been selected in the first three rounds of the NFL Draft, including quarterbacks Stetson Bennett and J.J. McCarthy. Their success has reinforced Georgia’s reputation as one of the top football pipelines in college football, with scouts increasingly prioritizing Bulldogs prospects in early-round selections.

For now, Everette and Bell’s offseason workouts have set them apart as two of the most exciting young talents in the league. Their ability to translate college success into NFL-level play will be a major storyline as teams finalize their rosters for the upcoming season.