The Pittsburgh Steelers have been desperately trying to improve their receiving corps over the past year, culminating in a trade for D.K. Metcalf this offseason. Prior to that, the Steelers looked for another remedy by making an in-season trade for wide receiver Mike Williams, who was on a one-year deal with the New York Jets. After Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft, we’ll finally know the outcome of this trade for both teams.

Original terms of the Mike Williams trade

Steelers receive: WR Mike Williams
Jets receive: 2025 fifth-round pick

How was Mike Williams’ performance for the Steelers?

Mike Williams joined the Steelers for nine games in the second half of the season, starting two. Fans had to be excited after Williams caught a critical touchdown against the Commanders as his first career reception in Pittsburgh. Unfortunately, that was the most impactful play of Williams’ short time with the Steelers.

The rest of the season saw Williams catch just eight more passes and never eclipse 36 yards in a game. He finished with just nine receptions for 132 yards (14.7 YPR) and that single touchdown. Williams played only 29% of the offensive snaps during his nine games with the Steelers.

He signed with the Chargers this offseason.

What did the Jets do with the pick from the Mike Williams trade?

The trade of Williams was made at the trade deadline and simply listed as a fifth-round pick. That pick landed New York the 162nd overall pick. New York added Miami linebacker Francisco Mauigoa with the selection.

Who won the Mike Williams trade between the Steelers and Jets?

All things considered, this was a relatively low-stakes trade for both sides. Mike Williams wasn’t exactly commanding any significant role with the Jets, and a fifth-round pick isn’t a massive amount of trade compensation.

That being said, it’s pretty clear that New York won this trade. Getting anything for Williams would be plus value, and picking up a fifth-round pick is a nice boost even if it’s unlikely to be earth-shattering. No matter what the Jets do with pick 162, they’ll come away as winners in this transaction.

WINNER: JETS