Steelers OC ‘Pleased’ With Germie Bernard’s Performance: ‘He Showed Some Strides’
With Michael Pittman Jr. out Sunday due to a foot injury, Pittsburgh Steelers rookie wide receiver Germie Bernard had a major opportunity early in his NFL career.
Though the game didn’t turn out the way the Steelers hoped, Bernard took advantage of his playing time against the New England Patriots. He had four receptions for 35 yards on eight targets, second on the team behind only DK Metcalf.
Bernard played 55 snaps, checking in with a total of 79% of the Steelers’ offensive snaps in their 20-3 loss. Of course, he had a major miscue near the end of the game, bobbling an Aaron Rodgers screen pass that resulted in an interception.
But that didn’t dampen offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio’s mood when assessing Bernard’s first extended NFL action.
“It was good to see Germ out there. I thought he showed some strides, certainly a lot to build off of,” Angelichio said, according to video via the Steelers’ YouTube channel. “I thought he took some steps forward. I was pleased. I thought he did a good job going in there and blocking. And it was good to see the ball find his way in a few targets.”
After playing just three offensive snaps in the Steelers’ Week 1 win over Atlanta, Bernard’s role grew exponentially with Pittman hurt. That Rodgers trusted him so much was rather surprising, considering Rodgers’ long history of being tough on young receivers.
While the miscue at the end of the game certainly hurt, it was good to see Bernard make some plays.
The second-round pick had all four of his catches on the same drive, including a 19-yard strike from Rodgers over the middle on a 3rd and 7 in the second quarter.
Take a look.
Bernard is a physical receiver who thrives working over the middle. He has great hands and is able to create separation with his route running. The Steelers need more of that, especially with DK Metcalf struggling with drops and Roman Wilson having some issues separating out of the slot.
It’s just one game, and the receiving stats were modest. But it was good to see Bernard take advantage of the opportunity and open some eyes. Hopefully the Steelers can keep him involved offensively, even after Pittman returns.
