A matchup against the New England Patriots is the focus for Mike McCarthy’s group heading into a busy weekend. The Pittsburgh Steelers will travel to Foxborough with the intention of stealing a road win. To do so, they must have a better offensive performance than in Week 1.
Unfortunately, Michael Pittman Jr.’s availability may derail plans before the game begins. Pittsburgh’s veteran wideout is nursing a foot injury. He also hasn't participated in practice since Wednesday, and he enters the weekend listed as questionable.
That isn’t good news for Pittsburgh. In the offseason, Omar Khan traded a sixth-round pick with the Indianapolis Colts to receive a seventh-round pick and Pittman's services. The deal gave McCarthy another weapon to help Aaron Rodgers.
Fans witnessed a glimpse of this in the home opener against Atlanta.
Last week, Pittman became a reliable weapon for Rodgers. His 58 yards led the team, and he helped the offense move the chains. He complemented DK Metcalf nicely and contributed immediately.
Without him, McCarthy and his staff must rely on other playmakers to keep Pittsburgh’s offense ahead of schedule. Luckily, the front office invested in Germie Bernard during the 2026 NFL Draft.
I believe he can be the perfect fill-in.
The Pittsburgh Steelers must incorporate Germie Bernard into the Week 2 game plan if Michael Pittman Jr. is unavailable
Few feelings compare to when preparation meets opportunity. Dedication and persistence helped Bernard make a lasting impression during the preseason. He was electric and left fans with a hunger to see him on the field.
In three games, Bernard earned 12.8 yards per reception and 46 yards after the catch. His elusiveness and versatility were on full display. It even helped the rookie earn the backup WR2 position behind Pittman on the depth chart to begin the campaign.
Since then, Pittsburgh’s standout rookie has been waiting for his name to be called. He played three snaps against the Falcons but did not see much action while on the field. Instead, Roman Wilson served as Pittsburgh’s alternate wideout.
At the time, it was the right call. Wilson’s speed and experience allowed the former Michigan receiver to create separation from defenders. The effort resulted in three receptions for 26 yards, including a forced pass interference call and a near-touchdown on a deep ball in the end zone.
The 37-3 snap disparity between Wilson and Bernard could shrink considerably on Sunday. If Pittman’s foot injury limits him or keeps him out, Bernard should have his first legitimate opportunity to carve out a meaningful offensive role.
But if we know anything about Bernard, it’s that he’s more than ready to show he’s capable. Just take a look at his collegiate resume.
In 2025, Bernard led the Alabama Crimson Tide receiving corps in receptions (64) and receiving yards (862). He also earned 101 rushing yards and two touchdowns during the campaign.
It’s impossible to ignore the various skills Pittsburgh’s rookie brings to the table. He’s a physical receiver who runs with determination and vision. The combination is deadly - especially when paired with an experienced quarterback like Aaron Rodgers.
Last week, the 42-year-old gunslinger displayed mobility and poise while attempting to stretch the field. But the connections with downfield targets were few and far between. I believe connecting with wideouts could become easier with Bernard’s versatility used more frequently.
He turns short, safe routes into meaningful gains. I wouldn’t be surprised if the rookie becomes Rodgers’ safety blanket. If he succeeds, Pittsburgh won't need to force the ball downfield.
Instead, they could feed Bernard.
Pittman's foot injury is not the best news to receive before traveling to Gillette Stadium. But Steelers fans shouldn’t lose composure. Not when Bernard is the next man up on the depth chart. I believe Sunday will provide Pittsburgh’s rookie with a chance to leave a significant mark. McCarthy will need him to do so to have his best chance at an upset win.
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