Chris Simms believes Pittsburgh Steelers rookie wide receiver Germie Bernard could quickly win over fans with his versatile and gritty play style. The analyst highlighted Bernard's potential during his Unbuttoned podcast. Simms envisions creative uses for the second-round draft pick fitting Pittsburgh's physical football culture.
The Pittsburgh Steelers addressed their wide receiver needs this offseason after struggling for production beyond DK Metcalf in 2025. They traded up in the second round to select Germie Bernard, adding him among multiple receivers to the roster. While Bernard may not match first-round talent immediately, his attributes align well with the team's preferences, according to NFL analyst Chris Simms. Simms discussed Bernard on Monday's Unbuttoned podcast, stating, “Germie Bernard with the Steelers, I could see him [being a fan favorite]. I could see him, speed sweeps, play tailback, get a toss, catch a screen, catch a big pass down the field, and the fans in Pittsburgh being like, ‘I love this guy in the second round. Did we get a steal here?'”Bernard's style emphasizes grit over elite speed or completeness as a No. 1 receiver. Fans already embrace physical players like third-round tight end Darnell Washington for his size and toughness, despite pass-catching limitations. Bernard shares that toughness, excelling with the ball in his hands by fending off tacklers. At Alabama last year, he lined up in the backfield for 18 carries, 101 yards, and two touchdowns.Though unlikely to outproduce veterans Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. as a rookie—especially with Aaron Rodgers potentially returning—coaches could deploy Bernard creatively. Packers offensive coordinator Mike McCarthy favors moving receivers around to utilize their skills. If Bernard maximizes opportunities, Simms expects him to build a strong following in Pittsburgh.
