Pittsburgh Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers Might Have Gotten Extremely Lucky With New Receiver

Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs learned it the hard way with Aaron Rodgers in 2022, Aaron Rodgers' final season with the Green Bay Packers. 

During OTAs and training camp, Rodgers rode both rookies, frustrated that the young receivers didn't run routes as the veteran quarterback expected. Issues understanding Rodgers' hand signals might have played a role.

Watson and Doubs became key receivers for the Packers later on in the 2022 season and have since gone on to have solid careers. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers gave Aaron Rodgers upgrades at receiver this offseason, trading for Michael Pittman Jr. and drafting Germie Bernard in the second round.

On Tuesday, Steelers offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio praised Bernard for how he's been able to quickly grasp the Steelers offense. He's been studying hard outside of the facility.

"We want to push the envelope early," Angelichio said, via Nick Farabaugh of PennLive. "We want to see where Germie can move and what he can handle, and he's done a good job with it. 

"I think his approach and how he studies outside the building, I think that showed up yesterday."

First, Bernard must understand what new head coach Mike McCarthy wants out of his receivers. Second, and most importantly to receive targets from Rodgers, he has to learn what the four-time NFL MVP wants.

On Monday, Pittman explained that even as a veteran, he had much to learn before getting on Rodgers' good side.

"Oh yeah, he's going to tell you," said Pittman, via the Steelers. "It didn't happen to me specifically yet, but I've seen it from watching games and stuff.

"He's a vet, a super vet quarterback. He knows what he likes and what he doesn't like. You guys watched him play. If you're not doing what you're supposed to do, he's going to let you know. Which is good. I think it's good to have that leadership."

Bernard and Pittman will excel if they can be on the same page with Rodgers. There's a reason why he's been at the top of the quarterback position for so long in the league.

Bernard has the work ethic to make strides with Rodgers immediately, and that could be a brilliant stroke of luck for the veteran quarterback in what will likely be his final season in the NFL. 

Rodgers needed better receivers to complement DK Metcalf. Bernard could be a rookie that helps the Steelers make a push for the playoffs this fall.