A second-round draft pick for the Pittsburgh Steelers is drawing early concern in training camp as he works to grasp the finer points of the offense.
Germie Bernard, selected after the team moved up in the 2026 NFL Draft, has spent much of his recent practice time with the second-string unit. An ESPN reporter who attended a Thursday session observed the former Alabama wide receiver facing challenges with specific assignments.
Ben Solak noted the rookie’s placement during team periods.
“Germie Bernard ran almost exclusively with the second-stringers during 11-on-11s and struggled with some of the finer details of the playbook — blocking assignments, motion, etc.,” Solak wrote.
Solak added perspective on the typical development path for players taken on the draft’s second day.
“Some Day 2 receivers break into the starting lineup quickly; some take time. Bernard looks like more of the second category to me.”
The Steelers made significant moves to bolster their receiving group. They acquired Michael Pittman Jr. via trade and invested a second-round selection in Bernard following a season in which DK Metcalf produced at the lowest level of his career.
Aaron Rodgers had not yet joined the roster when those draft decisions were made. Still, the front office aimed to provide more reliable targets for whoever would start at quarterback after an underwhelming performance by the wideouts the previous year.
New head coach Mike McCarthy has emphasized a strong ground attack as a core part of the team’s identity. That approach places extra importance on receivers contributing as blockers in addition to running routes and catching passes from Rodgers.
If Bernard continues to have difficulty with those blocking responsibilities through the preseason games, his opportunities for regular-season snaps could shrink considerably. Coaches often limit playing time for players who have not yet mastered the full range of duties expected in their scheme.
Bernard has spoken positively about the guidance he has received from the veteran quarterback. During organized team activities in June, the rookie described Rodgers as a valuable resource for learning the offense.
“Coming in as a rookie and him being an NFL vet, man, he’s just teaching me the game,” Bernard said. “He’s helping me catch up because he thinks I have the potential to play. He’s just pouring into me as much as he can.”I just ask questions and I try to learn, be a sponge as much as I can. Receive what they’re telling me because they know the best, they’ve been played the game for a long time.”
Those sessions, along with mandatory minicamp and the early days of training camp, have given Bernard exposure to the system. The coming preseason contests will test how well he can translate classroom and practice knowledge into game situations.
For a high draft investment, the expectation is usually quicker integration into the starting lineup. Bernard’s current trajectory suggests a more gradual process may be in store as he continues refining the details that have proven challenging so far.
The coaching staff will monitor his progress closely in the weeks ahead. How effectively he handles motion, blocking and the overall playbook will likely determine the size of his role once the regular season begins.
