Steelers urged to trade for former first-round pick to bolster receivers room

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a major question mark at wide receiver going into the 2024 season, and that need has yet to be addressed after the team struck out on its bids for Brandon Aiyuk and Davante Adams.

More players are sure to become available as the Nov. 5 trade deadline approaches, but landing a wide receiver the caliber of Adams or Aiyuk will be tough. Knowing that, general manager Omar Khan may have to settle for a less flashy name.

One potential option could be New York Jets wide receiver Mike Williams, who is reportedly available after the team landed Adams. The Draft Network's Justin Melo thinks Williams would be a strong addition for Pittsburgh.

No. 1 receiver George Pickens has been inconsistent and appears discontent with his involvement in the offense. Van Jefferson has been among the worst separators in the league. Rookie wideout Roman Wilson finally made his debut in Week 6 after missing the first five contests through injury. Justin Fields or Russell Wilson need more weapons at their disposal. Williams could help offensive coordinator Arthur Smith threaten opposing secondaries.

While there are obvious injury concerns with Williams, who is also in his first season back from a torn ACL, he would be a strong consolation prize for Pittsburgh if they can't make a bigger splash.

Williams has a knack for the big play and is a huge red-zone target. He would immediately slot in as the No. 2 behind George Pickens, giving the Steelers a formidable one-two punch that is better than what they have now.

Williams isn't likely to cost anything more than a fifth-round pick, and there is no long-term risk here because the 30-year-old will be a free agent in 2025.

Pittsburgh should absolutely aim higher than Williams, but he'd be a strong fallback option if all else fails.