Finally, the Steelers snag a reliable target for their quarterback.
Mike Williams is officially on the move. The Pittsburgh Steelers have acquired the 6-foot-4, big-play wide receiver from the New York Jets, exchanging a 2025 fifth-round pick to secure the veteran’s talents.
This trade, finalized just ahead of Tuesday’s NFL deadline, promises to bring an experienced option to Pittsburgh’s receiving corps, giving their offense a fresh spark. The deal is pending Williams’ physical, but both teams confirmed the trade shortly after the news broke.
The Steelers have been searching for a wide receiver with a knack for stretching the field, especially after missing out on San Francisco’s Brandon Aiyuk during the offseason. Williams, known for his ability to go deep, brings just that.
Despite limited play this season with the Jets, where he logged 12 catches for 166 yards in nine games, Williams’ skill set adds a much-needed layer to Pittsburgh’s attack. With Russell Wilson under center, the veteran receiver will join WR1 George Pickens, creating a dynamic pairing that could elevate the team’s passing game.
Mike Williams’ short stint with the Jets wasn’t particularly fruitful in terms of numbers. In nine games (three starts), he recorded 12 receptions for 166 yards and no touchdowns. The injury recovery and lack of snaps impacted his production, but he still managed to show flashes of his former big-play capabilities.
Over his career, Williams has been a reliable target, especially in critical third-down situations. In his seven seasons with the Chargers, he made a reputation as a clutch playmaker with an average of 15.3 yards per catch. His familiarity with high-pressure scenarios is expected to bring much-needed depth and veteran presence to Pittsburgh’s receiving room.
The Steelers filled a key need without a high cost, giving up just a fifth-round pick. Williams brings veteran leadership and a hunger for success—he’s been in the league for eight seasons but has only seen two playoff appearances.
His motivation to make an impact could be the edge Pittsburgh’s receiving group, including Pickens and Calvin Austin III, has been missing. However, Williams is coming off an ACL tear in 2023, and his lack of explosiveness this season raises questions about his potential.
If he can regain his form, though, the Steelers could walk away with a steal in this trade.
The Jets made a necessary move with this trade. Their decision to bring in Davante Adams meant Williams’ role was diminished, especially with Allen Lazard also in the lineup. Despite his experience, Williams found himself called out by Aaron Rodgers after a route error in Week 6, signaling his time in New York was nearing its end.
By moving Williams now, the Jets at least secure a fifth-round pick for a receiver who likely wouldn’t have been with the team in 2025. The only drawback? The Jets’ WR depth takes a hit, especially with Lazard on injured reserve.
In addition to Williams, the Steelers made another move on deadline day, acquiring edge rusher Preston Smith from the Green Bay Packers. Pittsburgh sent a 2025 seventh-round pick to Green Bay for Smith, who adds depth to an already strong defensive front.
Smith, a veteran with 66 career sacks, brings a wealth of experience and is expected to enhance Pittsburgh’s already dominant pass rush.
Read More: Rams trade CB Tre’Davious White to Ravens for seventh-round pick ahead of deadline
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