Scouting Report: Weaknesses

• Lacks true burner speed that makes defensive coordinators lose sleep – long speed could limit his ceiling as a vertical threat against NFL corners.
• Blocking technique shows more willingness than refinement – needs to improve hand placement and sustain engagement longer at the point of attack.
• Despite solid build, can get bounced off his path against physical press coverage – needs more functional strength against handsy corners.
• Production profile lacks that signature "take over the game" performance against elite competition that scouts crave from top prospects.
• Yards after catch ability relies more on craftiness than explosive traits – won't consistently break tackles or outrun pursuit angles at the next level.

Scouting Report: Summary

Bernard brings immediate value as a technician with alignment versatility and third-down reliability baked into his DNA. His route-running precision and trustworthy hands will endear him to quarterbacks who value timing and anticipation, particularly in critical situations where reliability trumps flash. His combination of technical refinement and football intelligence translates to a higher floor than most receivers in this class, even if his athletic ceiling remains a question mark.

Bernard thrives in the intermediate areas where his route nuance creates separation despite average long speed. His exceptional ball-tracking ability allows him to be a legitimate three-level threat – evidenced by how he consistently creates chunk plays downfield despite lacking burner speed. The most intriguing aspect of his game is how his deep and medium receiving abilities significantly outpace his athletic testing. He's one of those players whose production consistently exceeds what the stopwatch suggests should be possible.

What I love about Bernard's game is how it translates immediately to Sunday action. He shows veteran-like instincts finding soft spots against zone coverage and understands how to use subtle body manipulation to create separation in man coverage. He reminds me of receivers who may not dominate the combine but somehow always get open on third-and-seven. His special teams background provides additional value while he develops into a dependable secondary target who can occasionally take over games when matchups favor his technical prowess over pure athleticism.