The Pittsburgh Steelers have made significant moves ahead of the NFL trade deadline, enhancing their depth in crucial positions. They acquired wide receiver Mike Williams from the New York Jets and edge rusher Preston Smith from Green Bay, aiming to strengthen their lineup for the remainder of the season.

The addition of Mike Williams, a reliable wide receiver, came at the cost of a fifth-round draft pick in 2025. Williams, who has a towering presence at 6-foot-4 and 218 pounds, brings a wealth of experience with eight seasons in the NFL, mostly with the Chargers. His standout year was 2021, which saw him record 76 catches for 1,146 yards and nine touchdowns. Despite a slower start with the Jets, where he managed just 12 catches for 166 yards in nine games, the Steelers are optimistic about his potential impact alongside George Pickens.

Preston Smith, a formidable edge rusher at 6-5 and 265 pounds, was acquired for a seventh-round pick. Smith has been a consistent force in the league, with at least eight sacks in each of the past three seasons and a total of 2.5 sacks already in 2024. Originally drafted in 2015, Smith made a significant impact during his tenure with the Commanders and the Packers. His durability is notable, having played in 155 games with 138 starts, making him a reliable addition to the Steelers' defense.

The need for bolstering their front seven became critical after the injury to DeMarvin Leal, which left a gap in their defensive lineup. The recent game against the Giants underscored this necessity, as the Steelers conceded a season-high 157 rushing yards. Smith is expected to integrate seamlessly into the defensive rotation, providing a robust pass-rushing option alongside Nick Herbig, who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury.

To accommodate the new additions, the Steelers released tight end Rodney Williams from the 53-man roster. The team is set to face the Washington Commanders on Sunday, hoping that these strategic trades will enhance their performance and solidify their position in the league.