With the trade deadline just days away, wide receiver Mike Williams may have played his final game with the New York Jets. A first-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Clemson product spent the first seven years of his career making a name for himself with the Los Angeles Chargers. Known throughout the league as a contested catch specialist and downfield threat, Williams had to sign a one-year, prove-it deal with the New York Jets after suffering a season-ending injury early in 2023.
So far, the wide receiver has failed to recapture his old form. Playing in nine games, Williams has recorded just 12 receptions for 166 yards and no touchdowns on 21 targets while drawing the ire of quarterback Aaron Rodgers. With Davante Adams in town and first-round pick Garrett Wilson playing up to his draft capital, the 3-6 Jets could try and recuperate some draft capital with a Mike Williams trade. While the Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Chargers are the most likely destinations, the New Orleans Saints and Baltimore Ravens could also target the veteran.
Saints, Ravens Could Make Surprise Trade For Mike Williams
Despite their 2-6 record, head coach Dennis Allen and the New Orleans Saints insist they will not sell at the trade deadline. While a loss to the Carolina Panthers could change their mindset, it’s easy to see why this team refuses to give in on the season. General manager Mickey Loomis does not believe in rebuilding, Allen himself probably won’t be back if New Orleans misses the playoffs, and quarterback Derek Carr will replace fifth-round pick Spencer Rattler as the starter. While Carr’s presence should elevate the offense, he’s not the type of quarterback who can singlehandedly carry a team to a deep playoff run.
With Rashid Shaheed injured and done for the season, the New Orleans Saints lack proven pass-catchers behind first-round pick Chris Olave. The team reportedly tried to acquire Davante Adams before Derek Carr’s injury, which shows this team is actively looking for outside help. Ownership might not sign off on a high-capital trade, but Mike Williams shouldn’t cost more than a late-round pick. Nobody should object to a low-risk, medium-reward trade for a player who could help in 2024 and could net a compensatory draft pick if he leaves as a free agent.
More Help In Baltimore
The Baltimore Ravens already addressed the wide receiver position with the Diontae Johnson trade, but they could use another set of hands. The team acquired Johnson and an early sixth-round pick in exchange for a fifth-round pick, so there’s no reason they can’t go after another cheap receiver. Former first-round pick Zay Flowers is in the midst of a wonderful season, Rashod Bateman has promise as a big-play threat, and Johnson is a reliable chain mover. This is a well-rounded depth chart, but they lack a proven red zone threat and perimeter option.
At his best, Williams excelled at hauling in any pass thrown in his zip code. While the trade target has slowed down a bit in 2024, it stands to reason that Mike Williams could regain his form as he knocks off the rust from his ACL injury. The Ravens have one of the league’s most talented rosters, but there is no such thing as too many good players. Baltimore knows how hard it is to win in the postseason, and Williams and his contested catch ability could be the missing piece for this offense.
Main Photo: Kevin R. Wexler – USA Today Sports
