Steelers Now
One NFL analyst believes one of the Pittsburgh Steelers rookies will make an impact early and often in 2026.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are hoping to see big things from their rookie draft class in 2026. However, NFL analyst Matt Harmon thinks one, in particular, will make an impact early and often this season.
Harmon believes wide receiver Germie Bernard could begin making plays immediately for the Steelers.
“Germie Bernard is the ultimate glue guy,” Harmon said. “He’s gonna come in here, he’s gonna block, he’s gonna make plays with the ball in his hands. He’s pretty good at everything. As a route runner, his best stuff is definitely in the intermediate area. … He does complete the room for sure.”
The Steelers are clearly high on Bernard after trading up to pick No. 47 in the second round of this year’s draft to land him.
The Alabama product is coming off a career-high 64 catches for 862 yards and seven touchdowns in 2025.
However, Bernard will have to fight for looks with fellow wide receivers DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr.
Harmon doesn’t foresee that being a problem at all, though.
“I’ve heard some talk that they may want to use Pittman more in the slot. He did previously in Indianapolis, but Bernard and Pittman can both be 50-50 slot Z receivers while DK is the clear X of the room,” Harmon continued. “I think they got a guy who can contribute early and can be a high-floor player early on.”
Bernard must still prove he has the ability to make an impact right away during training camp, but he seems to have already done that with his new teammates.
“I think he came in the right way. He has put his head down and he’s working hard and he’s executing the plays,” Pittman said. “I mean, he’s been here for two weeks and I feel like he already knows everything. So, whatever he’s doing is working, and I think he’s going to keep on getting better.”
Bernard also impressed at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he recorded a 4.48-second 40-yard dash, 32.5-inch vertical jump and 10-foot-5 broad jump, earning an athleticism score of 75, which ranked 19th at the position.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Analyst Predicts Steelers Rookie to Have Immediate Impact
