Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Steelers Officially Sign Undrafted Rookie To 53-Man Roster

Originally posted on Steeler Nation
By Christopher Barbre | Last updated Oct 11, 2025 4:59 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers have had some riches in recent years from the undrafted free agent (UDFA) side of things. They have running back Jaylen Warren, who recently got a contract extension to stay in Western Pennsylvania for the future. Not all undrafted studs make it to the roster at first. Sometimes, it has to be earned as time goes on, like with former AP Defensive Player of the Year James Harrison. Key pieces could come from anywhere, including from the Island of Misfit Toys.

Another UDFA will get his chance prior to Week 6. Not only is wide receiver Ke'Shawn Williams getting elevated for the game, but he has also officially been signed from the practice squad to the 53-man roster, according to the Steelers. In the process, the team also announced that defensive end KJ Henry has been signed to the practice squad, which was reported on Friday night.

We have signed WR Ke'Shawn Williams from the Practice Squad to the Active Roster and signed DE K.J. Henry to the Practice Squad. @BordasLaw https://t.co/qOI3X3VgGj
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) October 11, 2025

Williams admitted that he got a lot more opportunities with starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers, so he seemed like the favorite to be called up with Calvin Austin III missing time due to injury. However, him getting an official roster spot already was a surprise. He was on the outside looking in after preseason, but he still showcased plenty of ability then and now may have a big opportunity.

Williams exact role is still to be determined, as it will not be clear how much playing time he receives until the contest actually happens. Either way, this is still a great opportunity for the rookie to prove to everyone that he belongs in the NFL and should be on any team's lineup as more than just an elevation here or there. Good luck out there.

Steelers Will Need To Make Another Roster Move Soon

With Williams being elevated, the roster now stands at 54 men. That means one player needs to be moved off the roster prior to the Week 6 game. It is very odd that the Steelers would not announce that corresponding move now, but it is expected to come shortly. There are a couple of options for who to drop off for now.

The most likely scenario is that Austin's shoulder injury got worse during the week, which would lead to the Steelers putting him on Injured Reserve (IR). Another option is that because of the cornerbacks all being healthy, James Pierre could be released, then signed back to the practice squad if he clears waivers. Either way, one man's misfortune is another one's fortune.

This article first appeared on SteelerNation.com and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: