Steelers' Germie Bernard Draws Unexpected Comparison To A Familiar Face

The Pittsburgh Steelers finally used a premier draft pick on a wide receiver when they selected Germie Bernard with their second round pick of 2026 NFL Draft. The franchise has neglected to address the wide receiver position seriously in recent seasons, and it has arguably cost them plenty of games. That changed this offseason with the selection of Bernard and the acquisition of Michael Pittman Jr. The team is looking to return to their old ways in drafting great wide receivers, starting with Bernard. Being just 22, he will be a big part of the future of the Steelers. 

What separates Bernard from the past wide receivers is his character. The wide receiver position is one of the most difficult to manage as an organization, often considered to be full of divas. The Steelers have seen plenty of that in the past and certainly don't need to again. Hence, what makes the selection of the former Alabama Crimson Tide member sweeter. Bernard has received tons of praise all offseason, some for his play in practice, but mostly for his character and professionalism. The willingness to be coached and his attention to detail give Steeler Nation hope that he can change the narrative on Steeler wide receivers. 

Naturally, Bernard draws comparisons to players around the NFL, mostly to former All-Pro Deebo Samuel. The way he was used at Alabama is almost the same as how Samuel was deployed with the San Francisco 49ers. There is another player, a former Steeler, whom a team insider recently compared Bernard to, primarily for his size and physicality. 

The Athletic's Mike DeFabo recently wrote a rookie report, covering each of the team's rookies and where they stand. DeFabo compared Bernard to a very controversial Steeler, believing he resembles JuJu Smith-Schuster. Smith-Schuster was once a fan favorite in the Steel City, but due to his off-field antics, he has become a bit of a journeyman.

"In terms of his physical dimensions and playing style, Bernard reminds me in some ways of JuJu Smith-Schuster. The second-round pick isn't going to wow you with any single part of his game," Defabo wrote. "He has good size at 6-1 and 207 pounds, but he's not towering. He has solid speed at 4.48, but not necessarily a burner. When you package it all together, however, he's a well-rounded and versatile receiver who should find ways to make an impact this year."

Bernard and Smith-Schuster are very similar in size and dimensions, but their playstyles differ. The now New York Giants playmaker was always more of a possession receiver, whereas Bernard is a threat after the catch. Despite their differences, both players do the dirty work for their team, being more-than-willing blockers and making the tough plays underneath. If Bernard can have the same start to his career that Smith-Schuster had, the Steelers will be in a great spot. 

Bernard is currently battling for the wide receiver three spot with Roman Wilson. Due to Wilson's history with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Bernard likely has the edge. If Bernard can beat out Wilson to be the third receiver, or slot man, perhaps he could have a similar rookie season to Smith-Schuster, who burst on the scene despite a crowded offense. 

Steelers' Bernard Will Change Narrative In Pittsburgh

For too long, the Steelers have drafted pass-catchers who fall under the diva category. Bernard has always been a team-first guy, prioritizing winning over his stats. The last high draft pick used on a wide receiver was George Pickens, who is no longer with the team, and was extremely polarizing to say the least. 

Things might finally change for the Black and Gold and their recent luck with drafting receivers. 

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