Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Germie Bernard’s 10 receptions against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. That’s the most catches a rookie has ever had from Aaron Rodgers in a game, according to the CBS broadcast.
Najee Harris has the most receptions in a game for a Steelers rookie, catching 14 passes for 102 yards in 2021 against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Bernard has taken advantage of the opportunity with Michael Pittman Jr. on injured reserve.
“Like I always say, my preparation is always the same. I’m preparing like I’m the starter; I’m always prepared and ready for whatever comes my way,” Bernard said in the week leading up to the game against the Indianapolis Colts. “I’m excited to step into a new role.”
Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy raved about Bernard during his weekly press conference on Monday.
“Football comes easy to him,” McCarthy said. “I think there’s some young-guy mistakes he made yesterday, but you can see it coming. I think he’s acclimated very well to the offense. The ability to play all three positions, he sticks his nose in there in the run game too. I’ve been very, very impressed.”
Steelers offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio has taken notice, too. Bernard can block. He fights for yards after the catch, can make things happen on a jet sweep or vacuum in a pass in the flat.
“There’s a lot we can do with Germ,” Angelichio said.
As much as his physical abilities shine through, Bernard feels like the mental side of his game has blossomed. With Pittman, Roman Wilson and Ben Skowronek all shelved, Bernard will get more of a chance to show his talent.
“I knew that we had one of our talented guys go down, and I knew I had to step up and I knew that I had to prepare well,” Bernard said after Sunday’s win over the Colts. “I think that’s where that trust came in at, and it showed on the field.”
Through six games, Bernard has 23 receptions for 221 yards.
“I think, as a young player, playing in a game against some experience, the more experience you get, the better you get (with) understanding the game,” Bernard said. “I feel like the more that I play, the more that I understand, the more that I get comfortable with the game.”
Brendan Howe contributed.
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