Steelers trade for Jets’ Mike Williams, Packers’ Preston Smith

The Pittsburgh Steelers made two notable moves at the trade deadline, acquiring Jets wide receiver Mike Williams for a 2025 fifth-round pick and Packers pass rusher Preston Smith for a 2025 seventh-round pick. Williams provides a solid complement to top receiver George Pickens, who has drawn defensive focus since the Steelers traded Diontae Johnson to the Panthers for cornerback Donte Jackson in the offseason.

With Smith, the Steelers strengthen a pass-rush unit impacted by injuries this season. Smith brings 10 years of experience and has been a reliable starter, adding depth alongside Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig, who have both missed games due to injuries. Smith’s 2.5 sacks and 19 tackles this season should also support Pittsburgh’s run defense as they face critical AFC North games.

The Steelers’ passing game has improved with Russell Wilson as starting quarterback, but they sought more depth with Williams, joining Van Jefferson, Calvin Austin III, Scotty Miller, and 2024 third-round pick Roman Wilson, who is on injured reserve. Head coach Mike Tomlin expressed confidence in the depth, noting the team’s hardworking receivers will have chances to shine.

At 6’4″, Williams is now the tallest wideout on the roster, bringing size and jump-ball skill to an otherwise smaller, quicker group. The Jets were willing to part with him after acquiring Davante Adams from the Raiders, moving Xavier Gipson to WR3 until Allen Lazard returns from injury. Earlier, Aaron Rodgers had publicly criticized Williams for a miscommunication that led to an interception, and Williams later expressed openness to a trade.

Williams, who was signed to a one-year, $10 million deal by the Jets, has struggled to find a steady role since recovering from ACL surgery. In nine games, he recorded 12 catches for 166 yards. Previously with the Chargers, he tallied two 1,000-yard seasons across seven years before being released after his injury.

The Packers, now with only two players over 30, likely intended this as Smith’s final season given his salary. His reduced playing time opens the door for Lukas Van Ness to take on a bigger role in the Packers’ defense, alongside Kingsley Enagbare and Arron Mosby.