Marvin Harrison Jr. missed multiple games due to a heel issue and a midseason appendectomy, while Greg Dortch’s season-ending chest injury forced Arizona to lean heavily on Michael Wilson. With Harrison Jr. and Wilson anchoring the majors, the Cardinals needed more depth behind them, making Bernard a appealing addition if the team can land him.
Bernard began as a four-star recruit at Michigan State before transferring to Washington, and finally joined Alabama with Kalen DeBoer following his coach. Over two seasons in Tuscaloosa, he recorded 1,658 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, used in multiple roles including lining up in the backfield and even taking occasional direct snaps or passes from the quarterback.
Scouting notes describe Bernard as a true possession receiver and a technician with refined movement. While his route-running isn’t described as explosive, it’s consistent and crisp, and he maintains momentum through breaking routes. His versatility, plus a comfortable catch radius, would align with Arizona’s need for a versatile playmaker who can contribute in multiple sets.
Miller’s projection isn’t the only path Bernard could take—other mock drafts have him landing with the Colts in a mid-second to mid-third round. If he lands with the Cardinals, he’d work under a coaching staff tied to the Sean McVay coaching tree, now led by Mike LaFleur, the team’s new head coach.
LaFleur’s hire comes as Arizona attempts to rebound from a 3–14 season and rebuild a competitive offense. He arrives from the Rams, where he helped craft a high-scoring unit averaging more than 30 points per game in 2025. With weapons like All-Pro tight end Trey McBride, Harrison Jr., Paris Johnson Jr., and veteran edge rusher Josh Sweat, the Cardinals face a substantial but surmountable challenge as they look to restore consistency on offense.
