The Pittsburgh Steelers needed help at wide receiver, and as the trade deadline loomed, General Manager Omar Khan made a decisive move. Khan struck a deal with the New York Jets to acquire wide receiver Mike Williams in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Known for his ability to make big plays, Williams was expected to add a much-needed vertical threat to Pittsburgh's passing game, giving quarterback Russell Wilson another weapon downfield. Steelers fans were excited, but didn’t expect Williams to make a big impact right away, especially since he had only just joined the team.
In Week 10, however, Williams seized a crucial opportunity and made an unforgettable first impression. Late in the game, with the Steelers trailing, Wilson connected with Williams on a stunning 32-yard touchdown pass. The catch gave Pittsburgh the lead and ultimately secured the victory, as Williams showcased the exact play-making ability Khan hoped to add.
After the game, Williams made a surprising admission; he hadn’t been assigned that particular route. Williams told Mike DeFabo that he never even had run the route in practice.
"None," Williams said in response to how many times he had run the route before that play. "I didn't run it one time."
Williams revealed that the play was originally designed for Calvin Austin III, but with Austin sidelined due to an injury, the opportunity shifted to him.
Wilson had provided some guidance on the sideline right before the drive, and when the moment came, the two connected on a game-changing play that made all the difference.
"It was for for him [Calvin Austin III]. He was out. So I went in there and made a play."
It was an impressive first impression for Steeler Nation. Mike Williams, once considered a promising young star in the league, had his momentum interrupted by injuries, but he’s still shown flashes of his potential. Now a seasoned veteran, Williams has found a new role with the Steelers. He joined the Jets in the 2024 offseason, but struggled to find his place in their offense, and after the team acquired Davante Adams, they were comfortable moving on from him.
Williams’ time in Pittsburgh is expected to be a short-term rental, as he’s set to become a free agent after the 2024 season. While the Steelers may not have long-term plans for him, they saw an immediate opportunity to bolster their receiving corps for the remainder of the season. His addition provides a much-needed veteran presence, and Pittsburgh is hoping he can recapture the form that once made him one of the league's most promising wide receivers.
Steelers' Mike Williams Makes Great First Impression In Pittsburgh
For now, Williams is focused on making an impact this season, and the Steelers are counting on him to help spark their passing game. Whether or not he remains in Pittsburgh beyond 2024 will depend on his performance, but for now, he’s eager to prove his value in a new environment. He made a tremendous first impression and Steelers fans are hopeful to see Williams build on it.
His catch on Sunday, which helped the Steelers secure a win over the Commanders, proved that Khan’s move was the right one. The Steelers needed a reliable weapon alongside George Pickens, and as Williams continues to get more comfortable in the offense, they now have that much-needed support.
