Insider Comments On Two Reasons Steelers Acquired New Receiver

The Pittsburgh Steelers will look to continue their winning streak against the Washington Commanders after their Week 9 bye week.

Pittsburgh’s offense began making changes before their bye week, starting veteran quarterback Russell Wilson in the last two games since his return from injury. The Steelers put up over 400 yards in both games under Wilson and scored 26 or more points in both contests. During the bye week, Pittsburgh improved its offense by trading for New York Jets wide receiver Mike Williams.

Fox Sports Insider Jordan Schultz stated that the Steelers targeted Williams due to his ability to make contested catches while appearing on FS1’s Speak, a quality that will also help them in the red zone.

“I talked to the Steelers last week, and they said, ‘If we get Mike Williams, it’ll be because of two reasons: he’s good in the 20s, and he’s good on 50/50s,'” Schultz said. “And that’s what Russell Wilson’s so good at with that moon ball.”

“I think what Pittsburgh really wanted ultimately was a No. 2 big body next to Pickens. Because they have (Pat) Freiermuth, they have Calvin Austin. They have some good, young receivers there, but they needed one more target.”

Williams’ 6-foot-4 frame and strong hands make him a great option for deep jump balls, which Wilson excels at throwing. He recorded 309 receptions, 4,806 yards, and 31 touchdowns over seven years with the Los Angeles Chargers but was hardly utilized in New York. The Steelers hope Williams will be what the team needs after trading a 2025 fifth-round pick for the receiver.

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