Bernard will have the opportunity to handle an expanded role in Thursday's preseason opener against the Packers due to injuries to both Michael Pittman (right leg) and DK Metcalf (undisclosed), Jacob Punturi of SI.com reports.
The Steelers released their initial depth chart Aug. 5, which had Roman Wilson pencilled in as the WR3 behind Pittman and Metcalf, while Bernard was listed as a second-teamer. A second-round selection of the Steelers in the 2026 NFL Draft, Bernard has been battling against Wilson for a spot in three-wide sets, and Thursday's preseason game will provide a stage on which both wideouts can audition for that role.