You could feel the disappointment ripple through the fanbase when the Pittsburgh Steelers announced their first‑round selection.
It was nothing against Max Iheanachor, who projects as a potential long‑term starter with significant upside. However, the frustration stemmed from the circumstances. The Steelers were just one pick away from landing standout wide receiver Makai Lemon before the Eagles jumped ahead of them and swooped him off the board. Naturally, the fans were left disappointed.
After selecting Iheanachor in the first round, many fans were unfamiliar with the young offensive lineman. He is a raw prospect, but also an exceptional athlete with the potential to develop into a high‑level player at the next level. His immediate fit on the depth chart is somewhat puzzling, especially with Troy Fautanu already established as an effective right tackle.
Failing to land Lemon in the first round of the NFL Draft has only further delayed the Steelers’ search for help at wide receiver.
While the team already has DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr., the depth chart is desperately in need of an infusion of young talent. Not finding a trade partner early in the second round could prove problematic. If they are unable to move up, Germie Bernard may emerge as their best available option.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could follow up their Max Iheanachor pick by taking Germie Bernard
Several intriguing wide receivers remain available heading into Day 2 of the NFL Draft.
Pittsburgh clearly intended to select Lemon in the first round but was caught off guard when the Eagles jumped ahead of them. That setback may have been frustrating and left the franchise looking flat‑footed, but the only option now is to move forward. Iheanachor could ultimately prove to be an excellent selection, though only time will determine how the choice truly plays out.
As Day 2 gets underway, adding a receiver remains a top priority for the Steelers. A few promising offensive playmakers are still on the board and could draw Pittsburgh’s interest. However, if the team stays passive in the early portion of the second round, they risk missing out on players who slipped through the first round. Standing pat could ultimately cost them a chance at securing high‑level talent.
Bernard is one of those names who could either fall to the Steelers’ scheduled pick at No. 53 overall or force them to consider moving up to secure him.
He was a highly productive player at Alabama, even amid inconsistent quarterback play at times. His ability to line up both inside and outside is a valuable trait, and one that head coach Mike McCarthy has openly prioritized when evaluating wide receivers.
While Bernard may not be destined to become a top‑tier receiver in an NFL offense, he could develop into a reliable complementary piece. He excels after the catch, an area the Steelers leaned on heavily last season.
Although he may not separate with elite speed at the next level, his quickness and twitch as a route runner allow him to create consistent separation.
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