The Steelers Now Entered The AFC WR Arms Race (Trade Grade)
Another trade, another team in the AFC that has entered the WR Arms race. This time it is the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have been trying to get involved in a receiver trade for months. Well, they finally struck a deal with the New York Jets to acquire Mike Williams. The details of the trade are down below.
Trade Details for Mike Williams
Pittsburgh Steelers Acquire: WR Mike Williams
New York Jets Acquire: 2025 5th Round Pick
Pittsburgh Steelers Side
For the past few months, the Steelers have been trying to get a wide receiver. They tried getting a Brandon Aiyuk, but he resigned with the 49ers. The Steelers had a deal in place for WR Christian Kirk, but a broken collarbone put a stop to that. The last chance of getting a receiver was with Mike Williams.
It makes sense why the Steelers were trying to get a receiver, as excluding George Pickens, they had no great wide receivers. The next best pass catcher is Calvin Austin. Williams is an upgrade if he stays healthy, and can be a better fit in the Steeler's offensive system.
New York Jets Side
There's no surprise here that Mike Williams was traded. Williams was done as a Jet the moment he ran the wrong route in that Week 6 game against the Buffalo Bills. Rodgers publicly called him out on it, and Williams dropped on the depth chart. Getting a 5th round pick is a nice value for a guy who was not being brought back next season.
Grades For Mike Williams Trade
Pittsburgh Steelers B+
New York Jets - A
Both sides win making this deal, but the Jets get the higher grade. It was clear Williams was not coming back at the end of the season, and he was a flop signing for the team. Steelers win getting Williams via trade, but it comes with a risk. Williams has lost a lot of explosiveness due to the Knee injury he had last season. Maybe a change of scenery can help him out. Well done trade by both sides, and hopefully this works out for everyone involved.