Steelers Rookie Germie Bernard Already Threatening Roman Wilson’s Role In 2026

The Pittsburgh Steelers are getting closer and closer to reporting to Latrobe, PA for training camp. It will be Mike McCarthy's first head-coaching experience there with the team. There are plenty of intriguing position battles to pay close attention to as well. It's all over the field, with different areas of the offensive line, the backup job at quarterback, and one of the most important ones is for the third spot at wide receiver. 

While the starting jobs are pretty much locked in with DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr., there's an intriguing battle behind them. That is between rookie Germie Bernard and Roman Wilson. While Wilson has a couple of years under his belt in the NFL, there's a lot to like with what Bernard brings to the table. He was very impressive at Alabama and that got him drafted in the second round to Pittsburgh. 

With how the Steelers have constructed their roster, it opens the door for the rookie to get playing time very quickly. Bernard is talented enough to be in the mix early, but of course, he lacks experience that gives Wilson the upper hand. Nonetheless, Wilson doesn't have that much more game experience over Bernard, setting this up for a real battle in training camp.

There is still plenty of time for these two to get reps and separate themselves. Steelers insider Christopher Carter shared his thoughts on the matter during 93.7 The Fan. When asked about how long it will take Bernard to emerge as the third option at receiver, he gave an encouraging answer.

"I don’t think long," Carter stated. "I mean, I think it’s really between him and Roman Wilson for that third option. I think if you’re the Steelers right now, that’s the battle that you want to see. Wilson is competing to show that he can be the third-year veteran that’s really stepping up, versus Bernard being the rookie that they drafted in the second round to be the guy this year."

Between Bernard and Wilson, both receivers bring something different to the table. Bernard has the height advantage, while Wilson is a step ahead with his legs. They are both strong when it comes to route running, so both have the tools to become the third receiver. With Metcalf and Pittman set to be on the outside, the battle will be for the slot role, and with their strong route running, the winner of the job needs to have the best hands. 

We saw last year how Metcalf can have his fair share of drops. He's another year older and the Steelers need consistency within their offense. That includes superstar play from a receiver being paid around $25 million in 2026. Having a reliable third receiver on the field should help open him up more.

With this being the last year of Aaron Rodgers in the NFL, the Steelers are going to need to give him something to work with. He cannot run as well as he used to, and his favorite check-down guy in Kenneth Gainwell is gone. The team must maximize the production out of Metcalf. That includes Pittman too, but the make-or-break decision is definitely there at the third receiver spot.

There have been plenty of reports about how hard-working Wilson is and with Bernard in the mix, it'll make for a fun battle at training camp.

Steelers Set For Important Battle For Third Receiver

This battle will play a major role in what happens in Pittsburgh this season. Rodgers wants to end his career on a high note, while the Steelers are still trying to win a playoff game this decade. 

Will Bernard or Wilson be the deciding factor? It all depends on who stands out in Latrobe in about a month.

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