Steelers’ Mike Williams May See Expanded Role in Playoff Game Against Ravens

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Williams could see an expanded role in the team’s do-or-die playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday night. Despite logging just one target in the regular-season finale, head coach Mike Tomlin hinted that Williams might receive more snaps during the playoffs.

Williams, who made a 25-yard catch in the final game, was limited to only 14 offensive snaps against the Cincinnati Bengals. This marked his lowest snap share since his debut with the Steelers in Week 9. Tomlin attributed the limited involvement to a lack of offensive fluidity, which hindered the team’s ability to sustain drives.

‘Certainly. And for us, it’s not just about Mike, it’s the playmaking,’ Tomlin said during his weekly press conference. ‘We didn’t make enough routine plays, and for us to be the type of unit that we desire to be, you gotta make routine plays. Oftentimes routine plays produce additional plays that could be spectacular.’

The Steelers struggled offensively in their final regular-season game, managing only 2.8 yards per play and converting just 33.3 percent of their third downs. Despite these challenges, Williams’ potential for big plays remains a key asset. He has primarily been used in 11 personnel groupings, which feature three wide receivers, and has shown flashes of brilliance, such as his toe-tap catch on 3rd and 11 in the first quarter against the Bengals.

However, Williams was not targeted again after that play, raising questions about his utilization. With the Steelers’ receiving corps struggling outside of George Pickens, Williams could provide a much-needed boost. Pickens’ three drops in the final game highlighted the team’s need for additional playmakers.

As the Steelers prepare for their playoff showdown with the Ravens, Williams’ role could be pivotal. His ability to make big plays and stretch the field could be the difference-maker in a high-stakes game.