Williams was released by the Los Angeles Chargers this spring after seven seasons with the club and signed a one-year, $15 million contract with the Jets ($5 million guaranteed). However, Williams had a torn cruciate ligament and was only used sparingly at the start of the 2024 season. When Adams was added to a receiver team that already included Garrett Wilson and Allen Lazard, Williams became expendable — even as Lazard struggled with an injury.

The 6-foot-1, 220-pound Williams is a big body known for his big plays, but recorded just 12 catches for 166 yards in nine games (three starts) in his short stay with the Jets, with no catches touchdown.

He should find plenty more opportunities in Pittsburgh and give quarterback Russell Wilson another proven option over WR1 George Pickens.

With the Jets clinging to playoff hopes at 3-6, this does little to diminish their underdog chances going forward and gives them a return to a Williams signing that didn't work out.

The Steelers, meanwhile, sit atop the AFC North at 6-2 and have finally addressed a glaring need that has been evident since preseason.

Rookie Roman Wilson (hamstring) is injured and hasn't played a snap yet. Van Jefferson and Calvin Austin III have made bigger contributions in recent weeks, but Williams is a big upgrade.

Williams has appeared to be on the block for weeks, and the Steelers have been trying to acquire talent at receiver for the duration of the season. Everything came together on deadline day.