The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Alabama wide receiver Germie Bernard with the 47th pick in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, following a trade with the Indianapolis Colts on April 25. The Steelers received both the 47th and 249th overall picks from the Colts, giving up their own 53rd, 135th, and 237th selections to move up.
The selection is notable as Bernard brings versatility and production to a team that has a history of honoring its football figures through initiatives like its Hall of Honor, according to the official website. The Steelers are also recognized for their six Super Bowl championships throughout their history, as reported by their official website.
Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio said, “We’re very excited. Germie is a tremendous person. I was really impressed with him on his 30 visit. His energy, his character, his makeup, who he is as a person. A great football, real productive player. Had a lot of success. Comes from a great program with a lot of history and tradition.” Angelichio added that Bernard’s ability to play both inside and outside positions offers flexibility: “We like his versatility, his flex to play inside and outside…we see a guy that can play inside, outside…and ultimately when we start practicing we’ll see where he fits best with the other receivers.”
Bernard played two seasons at Alabama after transferring from Washington and Michigan State earlier in his college career. He appeared in 27 games over two years at Alabama with totals including 114 receptions for 1,656 yards (a per-catch average of over fourteen yards) and nine touchdowns. In addition to receiving duties, he contributed out of the backfield and on special teams—a quality Angelichio described as attractive: “I think the flexibility is certainly always attractive when you’ve got a guy that can help on special teams in all four phases…he’s made a lot of big catches for Alabama in critical moments.”
Bernard’s college achievements include being named semifinalist for the Biletnikoff Award (given annually to college football’s top pass-catcher) during his senior season at Alabama.
The Steelers contribute to community engagement through historical celebrations such as those highlighted by their Hall of Honor Museum at Acrisure Stadium—which displays artifacts commemorating past players—according to information provided by their official website.
Angelichio concluded about Bernard: “His passion, his faith, his commitment—those really stood out to me…I was really impressed with the maturity of how he looked at things.” The franchise remains an active member club within the National Football League based on information from its official site.
