Few feelings are better than making a fruitful investment. Omar Khan and the Pittsburgh Steelers understand the confidence it brings. Successful evaluations resulted in a slew of beneficial selections during the 2026 NFL Draft. In return, we’ve witnessed explosive performances from a talented class determined to leave a lasting impression.
Germie Bernard is proving to be one of Pittsburgh’s most promising rookies.
The former Alabama standout was drafted with the No. 47 overall pick in April. Since then, he’s left a lasting impression on his teammates, coaching staff, and opponents. He’s also worked hard during OTAs, minicamps, and training camp.
The reward?
Lasting trust with his peers that’s showcased on the gridiron. Throughout the preseason, Bernard has become a catalyst for Mike McCarthy’s offense. He’s turned minor opportunities into huge plays. His play-making and ball-carrying skills are impressive and have always been a critical tool in the rookie’s arsenal.
“Throughout the draft process, when everybody asked what my strength is, I always say my run after catch," Bernard explained to the media after the Steelers' preseason finale. “I was really able to showcase that throughout these past three games."
There were no lies told.
Bernard has earned 12.8 yards per catch after his first three preseason games with the Steelers. He’s accumulated 46 yards after the catch, averaging 9.2 extra yards per reception. A 13-yard touchdown scamper via a bubble screen against the Bills demonstrated the rookie's ability to explode in the open field.
It did more than add six points to the scoreboard. It also proved Bernard is ready to become an integral part of an expanding offense led by Aaron Rodgers.
The Pittsburgh Steelers should reap a bountiful reward for Germie Bernad investment
There’s no doubt Germie Bernard has earned his spot on Pittsburgh’s 53-man roster. Just turn on the film from the last three outings. He’s provided consistency and big-play ability for an offense that could use more firepower in the upcoming campaign. It’s enticing for fans hoping McCarthy’s offense will jump off the page in upcoming weeks.
Last season, Pittsburgh averaged 5.3 yards per play and ranked 15th in points per game (23.4). Arthur Smith’s offense struggled to move the ball consistently. And it cost Pittsburgh wins at the end of the season.
Now, even if Rodgers settles for short passes, he can rely on Bernard to turn the short toss into a big gain.
An aggressive approach to roster construction has positioned the Steelers perfectly heading into the regular season. Sure, DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. are seasoned targets for Aaron Rodgers. But what’s more exciting is how easy it is to believe Bernard will fit right into a scheme perfect for his skill set.
We won’t see the Steelers' 53-man roster until Sunday night. But I believe Mike McCarthy and his staff will make the best decisions for the franchise's future. This includes using Bernard as a third wideout as much as possible. Yes, Roman Wilson has had his sights set on securing the slot role. But Bernard has played well enough that Pittsburgh may have to manufacture snaps for him even if Wilson remains ahead on the depth chart.
I expect Pittsburgh to get the second-round pick on the field as much as possible.
An explosive preseason is setting the stage for the bright future ahead. Germie Bernard didn’t hesitate when presented with the chance to shine. Instead, he gifted the Pittsburgh Steelers a strong, lasting impression that will earn the rookie more reps in the games to follow. I believe Bernard will quietly carve out a role in the offense immediately. He’s a reliable target with an incredibly high ceiling.
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