The Pittsburgh Steelers have done a good job throughout the 2026 offseason when it comes to addressing weaknesses and depth issues on the roster. The wide receiver position has already been upgraded by adding Michael Pittman Jr. from the Indianapolis Colts, while the running back room also saw an exciting addition in Rico Dowdle. The secondary has also been strengthened with the additions of Jamel Dean and Jaquan Brisker, and these moves have opened Pittsburgh up to the possibility of selecting the best player available in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, where the organization has the 21st overall pick.
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Steelers' Michael Pittman Jr. celebrates with his former teammate Anthony Richardson when he played for the Colts.
It seemed like a no-brainer at the start of the 2026 offseason that the Steelers would be drafting a wide receiver in the first round of the NFL Draft. The addition of Pittman has changed that, although a wide receiver in the first round is still a strong possibility. The wide receiver class in 2026 is considered to be strong, which means the Steelers can comfortably wait until Day 2 of the event to add to that position group. ESPN recently discussed teams' needs, and Jordan Reid matched up a perfect prospect for the Steelers that the organization can grab on Day 2 of the event.
"Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama," Reid wrote. "He isn't afraid to roll up his sleeves and do the dirty work, epitomizing the qualities that Pittsburgh has prioritized in previous years at receiver. Bernard can align at multiple spots in formations to use his strong hands and display how he's an asset as a run blocker."
Germie Bernard out of Alabama is not considered a first-round target, and he seems to be a lock to go on Day 2. He will probably be off the board at some point in the second round, where the Steelers hold the 53rd overall pick. Bernard can make plays with the ball in his hands, but Reid also noted his willingness to block in the run game, which is something Pittsburgh is always looking for.
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Former Alabama wide receiver Germie Bernard speaks to the media following a loss in the Rose Bowl.
Bernard's run blocking and willingness to get involved in that facet of the offense is attractive, but so is what he can do as a wide receiver in the passing game. Pittman and DK Metcalf are more physical wide receivers, while Bernard can serve as a short-yardage threat that can make a play at any moment. Pittsburgh needs a guy that is a threat when it comes to yards after the catch, and Bernard can fill that hole out of the slot.
In his final college season, Bernard hauled in 64 passes for 862 yards and seven touchdowns. He was also used in the running game as he carried the ball 18 times for over 100 yards and two scores. He is an all-around player that should be seen as a threat no matter where he lines up on the field. Pittsburgh needs a player like this as the franchise looks to upgrade its offensive arsenal.
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Former Indiana wide receiver Elijah Sarratt executing a drill during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.
Steelers Can Take Advantage Of A Deep Wide Receiver Class
With the additions made so far during the 2026 offseason, the Steelers have some sort of freedom in the first round when it comes to making a selection. Also, names like Bernard, Elijah Sarratt, and Skyler Bell being available on Day 2 will allow the franchise to address other positions first. The Steelers have the 53rd overall pick and three third-round selections, which should be considered prime real estate when it comes to drafting a wide receiver that is not a high-end prospect. This might be the best route to go for the Steelers, and it would give the team the chance to address safety or the offensive line in the first round.
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