The Pittsburgh Steelers decided to trade away Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers earlier this offseason, which made the need for quality receivers in Pittsburgh even more important. After the Johnson trade, the Steelers' only truly experienced receiver was George Pickens. The front office went out and signed Van Jefferson afterwards, who could be a good depth piece, but should not be relied upon as a starting option at receiver. The Steelers had their sights focused on Mike Williams, who signed with the New York Jets on Tuesday.
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Mike Williams in a game with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Pittsburgh had a visit planned with Williams for Thursday, and he was scheduled to visit the Jets and Panthers earlier in the week. Once the Steelers were scheduled as the last visit of the teams interested in Williams, it became clear that he might not even make it to Pittsburgh if one of his prior visits went well. Unfortunately, this was the case for Pittsburgh, as Williams visited the Jets and left with a contract, which was originally reported by Adam Schefter.
Mike Williams is signing a one-year deal worth up to $15 million with the Jets, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 19, 2024
The deal Williams signed was for just one year that could be worth up to $15 million. The Steelers currently have just over $15 million available in cap space, so Williams probably would not have been able to get as lucrative of a deal in Pittsburgh. Williams is coming off a 2023 season where he only appeared in three games, as he tore his ACL in Week 3 against the Minnesota Vikings and was ruled out for the season.
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Mike Williams in a game with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023.
Steelers Could Have Used Mike Williams' Production
Williams has had a very successful NFL career since being drafted seventh overall in 2017. He has eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards twice, and has caught 31 touchdowns in his career. He was on pace for an impressive season in 2023, as he totaled 249 receiving yards and a touchdown on 19 catches through just two and a half games.
Williams could have been a good piece in Arthur Smith's offense, and would have been a good complementary receiver to Pickens. The Steelers will now continue their search for a wide receiver, whether it be a free agent like Tyler Boyd, or through a trade for a player like Brandon Aiyuk.
What do you think about the Steelers missing out on Williams? Who should they target now? Comment below!
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