Germie Bernard Tabbed by CBS Sports as a 2026 Impact Rookie WR

Photo Credit: Karl Roser/Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers fans have seen plenty of offseason training clips from rookie receiver Germie Bernard, and it’s fair to expect that work to show up once the season begins.

Josh Edwards of CBS Sports ranked Bernard No. 9 on his list of rookie wideouts poised to make an impact in 2026. Edwards notes that Bernard’s value may not fully appear on the stat sheet, but his versatility should allow Pittsburgh to deploy him in multiple ways, particularly in short‑yardage situations or against zone coverage.

“He presents himself well against the soft spots in zone coverage, but is also willing to seal the edge in the run game or deliver a game‑breaking open‑field block.”

CBS Sports projects Bernard to finish with 42 receptions for 508 yards and three touchdowns. Given the depth of the Steelers’ receiver room, that total could come in slightly lower, though Bernard’s ability on the ground—via end‑arounds or reverses—could supplement his production.

Last season at Alabama, Bernard posted 963 scrimmage yards and nine touchdowns, including a career‑high 101 rushing yards on 18 carries.