The Pittsburgh Steelers are once again in the spotlight for their recent moves in the free agency market. They’ve made headlines by acquiring quarterbacks Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and linebacker Patrick Queen. Now, they’re set to meet with Mike Williams, a former Chargers receiver. The Steelers are not alone in this pursuit, as the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers are also scheduled for meetings with Williams, according to reports by CBS Sports HQ Senior NFL Insider Josina Anderson.
The interest from the Steelers in Williams comes at a crucial time. They’ve recently traded Diontae Johnson and released Allen Robinson. With the financial flexibility provided by spending less than $4.5 million combined on Wilson and Fields, the Steelers are in a good position to afford Williams, assuming his financial expectations are reasonable.
The Panthers, who now have Johnson, are also in the mix for Williams. Their receiving group, which includes veteran Adam Thielen and 2021 second-round pick Terrace Marshall Jr., could benefit from Williams’ experience and productivity. Marshall Jr., despite his potential, has yet to make a significant impact.
The Jets are in need of reinforcements for their receiving corps. Last season, their No. 2 and No. 3 wideouts, Allen Lazard and Xavier Gipson, combined for only 44 catches and one touchdown. Adding a player of Williams’ caliber could provide a much-needed boost to their offense.
Williams has proven himself to be a highly productive player throughout his seven seasons with the Chargers. Standing at 6-4 and weighing 218 pounds, he has amassed 309 receptions and 31 touchdowns. Notably, Williams has two 1,000-yard seasons under his belt and led the NFL with a 20.4 yards-per-catch average in 2019.
However, teams interested in Williams must consider the risks. The 29-year-old receiver has faced injuries that impacted his play, including a back injury that sidelined him during the Chargers’ 2022 playoff loss to the Jaguars. Additionally, a torn ACL ended his 2023 season after just three games.
In summary, Mike Williams presents an intriguing option for teams looking to bolster their receiving corps. His track record speaks volumes, but his recent injury history may give some teams pause. The Steelers, Jets, and Panthers, each with their own set of needs and circumstances, find themselves in the mix for what could be one of the more impactful signings of this free agency period.