On Friday night, the Pittsburgh Steelers took Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Germie Bernard with the No. 47 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Bernard is coming off an impressive season in Tuscaloosa, where he was Ty Simpson’s favorite target, hauling in 64 catches for 862 yards and 7 touchdowns. Bernard added another 101 rushing yards to go along with a pair of rushing touchdowns.
The selection of Bernard by the Steelers came just days after former NFL star wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. labeled Alabama’s Bernard a “pro’s pro” in a viral X video.
Steve Smith Sr. Saw It First
Before Bernard heard his name called on draft night, Smith had already made his stance clear.
In the widely circulated clip, Smith praised Bernard for his professional approach to the position, highlighting the traits that often go unnoticed but matter most at the next level.
Calling a young receiver a “pro’s pro” isn’t casual praise; it’s a statement about his preparation, consistency, physicality, and overall football IQ.
And now, it’s clear the Steelers saw the same thing.
Why the Steelers Targeted Germie Bernard
The Pittsburgh Steelers have long valued toughness, physicality, and reliability at the wide receiver position.
Bernard fits that mold perfectly. At No. 47 overall, Pittsburgh didn’t just draft a pass-catcher; they drafted a complete football player.
Smith also called Bernard “gritty,” which perfectly encapsulates the Steelers organization. This feels like a match made in heaven.
Final Takeaway
Steve Smith Sr. called it.
Germie Bernard isn’t just a talented receiver; he’s a complete football player who does the little things right.
And when the Pittsburgh Steelers selected him No. 47 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, they confirmed exactly what Smith saw on film.
Sometimes, the evaluation really is that simple.
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