The Pittsburgh Steelers have been tied to a ton of trade rumors at wide receiver. It started when the Steelers made the big move to trade star wide receiver Diontae Johnson early in the 2024 offseason. Then reports came out that the Steelers were very close to pulling off a blockbuster trade for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. That deal was reportedly done but fell through as Aiyuk didn’t want to be traded after all. The next huge name was Davante Adams, who requested a trade out of Las Vegas. Adams ultimately ended up being traded to the New York Jets, leaving the Steelers empty-handed once again.
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Steelers' Mike Tomlin and Omar Khan after the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
The latest buzz surrounds Cooper Kupp, an exciting name linked to Pittsburgh. Many fans are hopeful that General Manager Omar Khan can orchestrate a deal to bring the veteran wide receiver to the Steel City at a favorable price. Kupp, known for his exceptional route-running and playmaking ability, would be a significant addition to the Steelers' receiving corps. His presence would help elevate the offense and provide a very reliable veteran target for Russell Wilson.
Steelers insider Gerry Dulac weighed in on the situation, suggesting that while Kupp would be a valuable acquisition, the more likely scenario involves the Steelers trading for the Jets' Mike Williams.
"Someone like Williams, who is of no use to the Jets now, would be more realistic [than Kupp]," Dulac said.
The Jets signed Williams in the 2024 offseason, seeking a deep-ball playmaker to complement Aaron Rodgers. However, Williams has not been overly productive with the Jets, and with the recent trade for Adams, his role has become even less pivotal. This situation makes him a viable trade candidate for the Steelers to consider.
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Jets' Mike Williams celebrates after a big play.
While acquiring Kupp would undoubtedly be the more exciting option, Williams could still provide the Steelers with a meaningful boost. Although it wouldn’t match the impact of Aiyuk, Adams, or Kupp, bringing in Williams would likely be a cost-effective move for Pittsburgh. The Steelers probably wouldn't need to give up much, with a seventh-round pick likely sufficient to finalize a deal, especially since the Jets appear to have little use for him now.
Williams is an intriguing prospect; drafted seventh overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, he has struggled to fully live up to the expectations of a first-round pick but has still carved out a respectable NFL career. Injuries have hindered his progress, causing him to miss significant time. Despite these setbacks, Williams has remained a productive wide receiver and a deep threat, which aligns well with the style of play that Wilson showcased on Sunday night.
Steelers Trading For Jets' Mike Williams Would Be A Slight Upgrade
Williams has only recorded 11 receptions for 160 receiving yards so far in the 2024 season. If the Steelers were to trade for him, he could help take some attention away from George Pickens. While Pickens has showcased his star potential, defenses have been able to focus all their efforts on him. Adding a downfield threat like Williams would force secondaries to respect his speed and ability, which could, in turn, free up opportunities for Pickens.
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Jets' Mike Williams celebrates after a big first down.
The Steelers' offense looked impressive with Wilson at the helm, as he passed for 264 yards and two touchdowns. If the offense continues to operate at that level, bringing in Williams would represent a slight upgrade.
While it may not be the most thrilling trade, it could still enhance the overall effectiveness of the passing game. As Steeler Nation awaits Khan's next move at wide receiver, Dulac believes that if a trade does materialize, it is likely to be for Williams.
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