Steelers beat writer Ray Fittipaldo said Pat Freiermuth is positioned to handle the third-most targets early in the upcoming season. He noted that rookie Germie Bernard faces a learning curve before claiming the No. 3 receiver role.
Fittipaldo made the comments during an appearance on Sportsline with George Von Benko on WMBS Radio. He said Bernard is expected to become the No. 3 receiver at some point but will need time to adjust.
Fittipaldo added that Freiermuth can step in and take those targets early in the season because of his experience. The tight end is viewed as a dependable option for quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. are projected as the top two targets. Bernard must show he can limit mental errors to win over Rodgers and secure a larger role.