Story perspectives

Bengals Claim Undrafted WR Ke'Shawn Williams from Steelers

12/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Cincinnati Bengals claimed Ke’Shawn Williams, an undrafted wide receiver from Indiana, off waivers from the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Williams played eight games for Pittsburgh as a kick and punt returner, totaling 425 kickoff yards and 112 punt return yards.
The Steelers waived Williams to make room for Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and the Bengals waived Jermaine Burton while adding Williams for depth and potential special teams ahead of the final three games.

History

Historical Context

The NFL's waiver wire system, established to promote competitive balance, allows teams to claim players released by others. In 2021, the Pittsburgh Steelers waived Ke’Shawn Williams, who had 425 kickoff yards in eight games. This strategic move reflects a trend of teams optimizing rosters for playoff contention, as seen when the Cincinnati Bengals claimed Williams for added depth.

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Story summary

The Cincinnati Bengals claimed Ke’Shawn Williams, an undrafted wide receiver from Indiana, off waivers from the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Williams played eight games for Pittsburgh as a kick and punt returner, totaling 425 kickoff yards and 112 punt return yards.
The Steelers waived Williams to make room for Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and the Bengals waived Jermaine Burton while adding Williams for depth and potential special teams ahead of the final three games.

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