Steeler WR3 Battle: Bernard vs Wilson

Steeler WR Core Gets Depth Boost

The Steelers finally have a depth problem at wide receiver after years of thin pass‑catching options. Both Germie Bernard and Roman Wilson are vying for the third spot behind DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr.. The pair bring different backgrounds and a shared drive to fill the void that has haunted Pittsburgh the past few seasons.

Bernard entered the league as a second‑round pick, 47th overall, from Alabama. Over two college seasons he amassed 114 catches for 1,656 yards and nine touchdowns. Expectations are high that the 6‑foot‑1 rookie can immediately become a viable option for Mike Tomlin’s offense.

Wilson’s path has been more circuitous. He spent four years at Michigan, where he tallied 107 receptions for 1,707 yards and 20 scores. Selected by Pittsburgh in 2024 after a national‑championship run, he missed most of his rookie year with injuries and appeared in only one game. In 2025 he posted 12 catches for 166 yards and two touchdowns, including a standout performance against the Green Bay Packers.

Training Together Under Route God

Both receivers have been spotted working out with route‑coach James Everett Jr., known as “Route God.” Everett previously helped shape the route running of former Steelers Diontae Johnson, Antonio Brown and Dallas’s George Pickens. Wilson’s sessions with Everett began in March and resumed in July, now joining Bernard for joint drills.

Social media posts from Everett show the two young receivers executing crisp cuts and quick releases. The visuals suggest a polished ability to stop on a dime and burst into the ball, which could accelerate their progress in the NFL. Their collaborative effort, voluntary after mandatory work, hints at a healthy competitive spirit.

The coach’s track record indicates that refined route work can turn raw talent into productive receivers. If Wilson and Bernard absorb the same techniques that elevated earlier Steelers wideouts, the offense could see a noticeable lift.

Why Receiver Depth Matters for Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s recent seasons have often collapsed because of limited weapons at receiver. A solid third option can spread defenses, protect the quarterback and keep players fresh. Having two promising candidates forces Mike Tomlin to make a tough but rewarding decision.

Both Bernard and Wilson project as young players with upside, so the Steelers gain flexibility regardless of the final choice. The competition is a positive sign that the organization is finally addressing a long‑standing weakness. This internal battle could also set the tone for the rest of the roster as the team prepares for training camp.

Looking Ahead to Training Camp

Steelers camp opens July 28, with preseason slated for August 13 against the Green Bay Packers. The final depth chart will begin to crystallize during the next few weeks of practice and preseason games. Fans can expect the Bernard‑Wilson struggle to dominate offensive discussions throughout July.

Success in camp will depend on factors such as chemistry with Quarterback Russell Wilson, defensive scheming and the ability to handle increased responsibilities. Observers will monitor target distributions, red‑zone involvement and special‑teams contributions as clues to who will lock down the third spot. The competition’s outcome could shape the Steelers’ prospects deep into the regular season.