Steelers rookie WR Germie Bernard primed for bigger role after Michael Pittman ruled out

Steelers rookie wide receiver Germie Bernard set for increased workload following quiet debut after Michael Pittman Jr. (foot) ruled out versus Patriots

Following a quiet debut, Bernard could force his way onto the field more often with an impressive performance against the Patriots. As a senior for the Alabama Crimson Tide last season, Bernard posted career-highs across the board, finishing 2025 with 64 receptions for 862 yards and seven touchdowns.

The Steelers will need him to win his one-on-one matchups to keep the Patriots from putting all their attention on limiting Metcalf. Bernard may also bring value to the Steelers (1-0) as a gadget player. Last year at Alabama, he had 18 carries for 101 yards and two touchdowns. In a Week 3 win over Wisconsin, he took the handoff in a split-back formation and found the edge for a short two-yard touchdown.

In Week 9 at South Carolina, Bernard broke a 22-22 tie with under a minute remaining on a 25-yard touchdown scamper after taking a direct snap out of wildcat formation.

Following last week's lackluster offensive showing, Bernard could provide a much-needed spark. According to NFL Pro data, the Steelers enter Sunday ranked No. 30 in offensive expected points added (EPA) per play (negative-0.35). 

If head coach Mike McCarthy utilizes Bernard's versatility, the rookie wideout may be particularly key to lifting a run game that finished last week's win averaging 2.8 yards per carry. Pittsburgh was stuffed on 23.8 percent of its runs against Atlanta, tied for the fifth-highest rate of Week 1, while producing the second-worst success rate (28.6 percent).

Having played a minor role in his NFL debut, Bernard is primed to shoulder a significantly heavier load against the Patriots. If he meets the moment, Bernard could be exactly what the Steelers need.