Michael Pittman Jr. has been on injured reserve since October 10th. Roman Wilson got injured during the second quarter of the Steelers’ Week Five game and was placed on injured reserve on Saturday. Ben Skowronek was also out with an injury for their Week Six game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They needed someone to step up at WR2, and rookie wide receiver Germie Bernard answered the call. The 22-year-old, whom the Steelers selected in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, is already proving to be an asset. With a lethal blend of explosive speed and crisp route-running, he isn't just playing like a rookie; he's playing like a foundational piece of Pittsburgh's future.
In Sunday’s game, veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers targeted Bernard 12 times and connected on 11. The Alabama alumnus surpassed JuJu Smith-Schuster’s record for the most receptions by a rookie Steelers wide receiver in a single game. He was nominated for the FedEx Air & Ground Player of the Week award. Over the last two games, the six-foot-one, 206-pound versatile chess piece caught 17 of 20 targets for 167 yards and a touchdown. Through the first six games of the season, he’s caught 24 passes for 227 yards and earned a 61.2 overall grade from Pro Football Focus.
On Tuesday, during an appearance on 93.7 The Fan, former Steelers offensive coordinator Todd Haley praised Bernard. He remarked, “I’m really excited about this kid. I think that’s a big item.” He observed, “He’s not the biggest, but he looks like he’s got a little moxie, and he’s developing a little chemistry with Aaron, so that’s a really good sign.” Bernard is clearly earning Rodgers’ trust. Haley explained why, saying, “It doesn’t usually happen, but when you see a young guy, what I like is, he looks like he’s got great feel when he’s playing inside as a slot-type receiver. He’s quick; he doesn’t look afraid. He looks tough, totally different guy than, say, JuJu.”
The current Steelers coaching staff also praised the NFL's second-most productive rookie pass-catcher. The young playmaker’s early production reflects his growing confidence, versatility, and ability to create opportunities within the passing game, positioning him as a promising offensive weapon whose continued development could add another dynamic dimension to Pittsburgh’s aerial attack. When he spoke with the media on October 12th, head coach Mike McCarthy noted that the rookie wide receiver finds football easy. He also said, “I think he’s acclimated very well to the offense, with the ability to play all three positions. He sticks his nose in there in the run game, too. I’ve been very, very impressed.”
Pittsburgh’s emerging offensive weapon has stepped into a bigger role sooner than expected, becoming a reliable contributor while building promising chemistry with Rodgers. The former Alabama standout’s versatility, work ethic, and growing confidence have strengthened his case as a potential long-term WR2. As the Steelers’ aerial attack evolves, the young playmaker’s ability to create separation, exploit defensive coverage, and capitalize on pivotal opportunities could transform an impressive rookie campaign into the foundation of a formidable receiving partnership.
