Philadelphia Native, SCH Academy’s Ke’Shawn Williams Signs With Steelers

Springside Chestnut Hill Academy alumnus Ke’Shawn Williams earned a spot on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice squad after a strong preseason showing that included an athletic 26-yard touchdown catch. Despite his 5-foot-8, 188 pound frame, Williams managed to use his body to ward off a Jacksonville Jaguars defender and haul in the jump ball on a go route.

The North Philadelphia native caught four passes for 86 yards and the touchdown during the Steelers’ preseason while splitting time with other roster hopefuls. He also served as the team’s sole punt returner, attempting nine returns and picking up 70 yards in the process.

Williams, 23, went undrafted after a five year college career that included four seasons at Wake Forest and a final year at Indiana, which made the College Football Playoff last season in part thanks to his help. He accumulated close to 2,000 offensive yards over the course of his college career and also returned kicks and punts.

Practice squad members earn a salary and practice with the team, often helping them prepare for their opponents in simulated competition as members of the scout team. After logging every single one of the Steelers’ punt returns, Williams could have an inside track to a spot on the 53-man roster after taking some time to develop his game.