Signs keep pointing toward the Pittsburgh Steelers taking a wide receiver early in the 2026 NFL Draft — if one falls to them. They may even be compelled to reach for a B- or C-level prospect if necessary, which highlights their glaring Roman Wilson problem.
The Steelers already acquired an established veteran wideout this offseason by landing Michael Pittman Jr. in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts. Investing heavily in a rookie has the makings of a doomsday scenario for Wilson's time in Pittsburgh. Be that as it may, Jordan Reid of ESPN identified Alabama's Germie Bernard as an option for the reigning AFC North champions.
Reid highlighted Bernard as someone the Steelers could select "to fill a need outside [of] Round 1." Pittsburgh would still have to spend a premium selection on the Crimson Tide standout, though, so doing so effectively kicks Wilson to the curb.
The Pittsburgh Steelers can end Roman Wilson experiment for good by drafting Alabama WR Germie Bernard
It's hard to gauge whether the real issue is Wilson's talent (or lack thereof) or organizational ineptitude; the truth probably lies somewhere in the middle. Either way, he's been virtually nonexistent across two campaigns with the Steelers, and the club is actively trying to add competition for him (again). Pittsburgh is reportedly set to bring Bernard in for a Top 30 visit, giving Reid's dot-connecting analysis legs.
"[Bernard] isn't afraid to roll up his sleeves and do the dirty work, epitomizing the qualities that Pittsburgh has prioritized in previous years at receiver," Reid wrote. "Bernard can align at multiple spots in formations to use his strong hands and display how he's an asset as a run blocker."
While Bernard isn't as highly touted as the top tier of pass-catchers entering the league this year, his solid profile puts him in the second-round discussion. He's the No. 33 player in ESPN's overall rankings of the class of 2026 and 49th on Pro Football Focus' big board. Fair or not, the Steelers' interest in the Las Vegas native suggests they've seen enough from Wilson in his incredibly limited sample size.
Pittsburgh notably holds the 21st and 52nd picks in April. So, they'll likely either have to surprise everyone and call Bernard's name on Day 1 or trade up for him/hope he falls to them later.