— Burt Lauten (@SteelersPRBurt) November 16, 2025 Williams returned the team’s opening kickoff but was not one of Pittsburgh’s two returners for the second kickoff of the game, meaning he likely suffered the injury on the opening kickoff. The Steelers signed Williams to their active roster ahead of the team’s Week 6 game against the Cleveland Browns with WR Calvin Austin III dealing with an injury at the time. Austin had been Pittsburgh’s primary punt returner, but with Williams activated, he took over punt-return duties and also worked on kickoffs. Heading into today’s game, Williams had 11 kick returns for 271 yards and 11 punt returns for 112 yards. He muffed a punt in the team’s Week 10 game against the Los Angeles Chargers, which led the Steelers to consider a change at the position. Williams sustained his concussion before the Bengals attempted a punt, so whether or not the team made a change is unknown. Williams signed with the Steelers following the 2025 NFL Draft as an undrafted free agent out of Indiana. Last season, Williams had 39 receptions for 448 yards and five touchdowns with the Hoosiers. Williams has played four offensive snaps for the Steelers this season but hasn’t registered a stat on offense. Williams joins CB Darius Slay in concussion protocol. Slay suffered a concussion in the team’s Week 10 loss to the Chargers. With Williams out with a concussion, CB D’Shawn Jamison, who was elevated from the practice squad yesterday, replaced him on kick return. Austin took over punt-return duties. Related Items: