The Chargers are bringing back a familiar face in an attempt to fill out the wide receiver room after missing out on the top free agents at the position.
Late Wednesday evening, the news broke that the Chargers are re-signing Mike Williams to a one-year deal worth up to $6 million, likely meaning his actual cap hit in 2025 could be around $4-ish million. It’s another low-cost signing bye Joe Hortiz and while it’s not a marquee name, it fills a role for the Chargers offense (X-receiver who can win outside the numbers) who also has immense chemistry with quarterback Justin Herbert.
Following his release prior to the 2024 season, the Chargers reportedly tried to re-sign Williams before the season but he ultimately signed with the New York Jets. However, that began a long and truly brutal year for the receiver as he would go on to be traded to the Steelers half way through the season. In the end, he finished the year with just 36 targets, 21 receptions, 296 yards, and one touchdown.
That stat line may have Charger fans skeptical that Williams is “washed” or something close to it, but I think we need to be realistic here. He joined an Aaron Rodgers team that wasn’t giving anyone good looks unless they were on of his “guys” and overall the Jets were bad. Not a great situation to weigh against Williams. After the trade to Pittsburgh, Williams still wasn’t going to be all that high in the pecking order. George Pickens, Calvin Austin, and tight end Pat Freiermuth were always going to be above him in target share.
Now, Williams is back with Herbert and that chemistry cannot be understated. Williams will be one of the team’s top three wideouts again, but this time he won’t be relied upon as heavily to help carry the passing attack. That’s Ladd McConkey’s job now and Williams just needs to be his usual self, regardless of what the expected stat line will be at the end of the year.