​The Steelers have not enjoyed standout wide receiver depth in recent seasons, but 2026 brings a welcome shift with real potential in the pass-catching corps. A clear, useful problem has presented itself: who will emerge as the Nos. 3 and 4 receivers behind DK Metcalf and the recently added Michael Pittman Jr. Both Roman Wilson and Germie Bernard are young, promising talents drafted from prestigious programs, and each has shown flashes that could translate into meaningful contributions in Pittsburgh.
Bernard, a rookie out of Alabama, is a 6-foot-1 receiver who turned heads in college with 114 receptions for 1,656 yards and nine touchdowns across two seasons. The Steelers selected him in the second round of this year’s draft, the 47th overall pick. Expectations are high for Bernard among fans and analysts who foresee him becoming a foundational piece of the Steelers’ offense. His size, route-running ability, and potential to grow into a reliable catch-and-go option make him a compelling candidate to secure the third receiver role.
Wilson’s path to this point is less conventional for a high draft pick. He spent four seasons at Michigan, totaling 107 receptions for 1,707 yards and 20 receiving touchdowns. Pittsburgh drafted him in 2024 after he helped Michigan claim a national title, but his rookie year was marred by injuries, limiting him to a single game. Last season, Wilson earned a modest amount of playing time early on but eventually was a healthy scratch as the season wore on. He did, however, make the most of his opportunities, recording two touchdowns and 74 yards on seven receptions, with a season total of 12 catches for 166 yards.
Off the field, Wilson and Bernard have been seen collaborating and sharpening their craft, notably with James Everett Jr., known as “Route God.” Everett Jr. is a respected route-running coach who has worked with a number of NFL receivers, including former Steelers like Diontae Johnson and Antonio Brown. Wilson posted footage of training sessions with Everett Jr. in March and again in July, this time alongside Bernard. The duo’s shared work ethos signals a commitment to improvement that transcends normal offseason routines. It’s a positive sign for a competition that is shaping up to be one of the most interesting battles in Steelers camp this year.
Everett Jr.’s influence on route precision is well documented. He also played a part in George Pickens’ development over the past two offseasons, a factor many point to when explaining Pickens’ breakout 2025 season. The parallel arc for Wilson and Bernard suggests that the Steelers are prioritizing refined route running and reliable separation, two ingredients that could elevate either player into a consistent third option in the passing game.
The question now becomes who will seize the slot role and, by extension, the third receiver spot. Both players bring distinct profiles: Bernard with his Alabama pedigree, size, and proven production in college, and Wilson with his speed, agility, and a potential for a higher ceiling after a rocky start to his NFL career. The Steelers’ offense has long benefited from versatile receivers who can line up inside and outside, creating flexible alignments and mismatches for opposing defenses. The upcoming preseason and training camp will likely tilt the balance toward one player, but the decision will be earned through performance, reliability in routes, and consistency in hands.
Receiver depth has often been cited as a weakness that has hindered Pittsburgh in critical moments. In 2026, though, the organization seems to have addressed that gap with two talented prospects who could both contribute immediately while also pushing each other to improve. The extension of the battle for the No. 3 wide receiver spot is not just about filling a role; it’s about cultivating a competitive environment that can yield higher-level play across the entire unit. If either Wilson or Bernard can translate their offseason work into consistent on-field production, the Steelers will gain more explosive options in the passing game and more flexibility in their game plan.
In conclusion, the Steelers’ 2026 depth chart at wide receiver presents a healthy, competitive dilemma for head coach Mike Tomlin and his staff. Bernard brings a robust combination of size, college production, and high expectations, while Wilson offers speed, resilience, and the potential for significant growth after a challenging start to his NFL journey. Both players are clearly talented and poised to impact Pittsburgh’s offense. The competition for the slot and No. 3 receiver roles will be compelling to watch, and whichever player earns the trust of the coaching staff will reap the rewards of a more dynamic and versatile passing attack. This is a development story to monitor closely as Pittsburgh looks to capitalize on improved depth and continue building a potent, multi-dimensional offense.