The Pittsburgh Steelers are under increasing scrutiny after struggling to close out the 2024 season. With an offense that failed consistently, it became glaringly obvious that the team needed more firepower. Especially at wide receiver. As the season progressed, the need for an additional weapon in the passing game grew more pronounced.
To address this, the Steelers traded for veteran wideout Mike Williams from the New York Jets. While Williams played a role in helping the team finish the season, the decision to re-sign him for 2025 is a frugal, short-term fix that does little to solve the Steelers’ long-term offensive issues.
With Pittsburgh, Williams showed flashes of clutch performance, but his overall production fell short as a secondary receiver. In 2024, Williams posted just 21 receptions for 298 yards and one touchdown. These are underwhelming numbers for a player expected to be a consistent contributor.
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Secondary receivers are supposed to stretch the field, create separation, and offer the quarterback a reliable option in key moments — roles that Williams did not consistently fulfill. While he came through in some clutch situations, his overall impact was limited.
Steelers must sign an elite wide receiver in Free Agency
The problem is that Williams is scheduled to earn around $10 million per year, a salary comparable to veterans like Brandin Cooks and Robert Woods. While both of those players are solid, reliable veterans, none of them are game-changers. Signing players of this caliber does not elevate a team to championship contention.
They may be good enough to fill a role, but they won’t take the offense to the next level.
If the Steelers want to upgrade the WR position, Omar Khan must open his wallet.
— Coach Ricks (@LoyalJRicksJr) January 17, 2025
Mike Williams APY ($10M) is equivalent to Brandin Cooks, Robert Woods and slightly under DeAdndre Hopkins ($13M).
None of these players would do.
For the Steelers, a team with aspirations of postseason success, committing $10 million a year to a secondary receiver who has not consistently produced at a high level seems like a missed opportunity.
General Manager Omar Khan has made some savvy moves in his tenure. He must dig deeper into their financial resources to secure an elite talent. To make real strides toward a championship, Pittsburgh must invest in a playmaking wide receiver who can put up big numbers and elevate the offense.
The decision to re-sign Williams could keep the Steelers mired in mediocrity, as it does not address the need for an elite secondary option.
Re-signing Mike Williams would be a band-aid solution to Pittsburgh’s offensive struggles. The 2024 season was a perfect example of how the Steelers’ offense requires more than just competent players to succeed. To compete at the highest level, General Manager Omar Khan must be willing to invest in a higher caliber of talent.