Steelers sign CB Williams

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Former starting cornerback Willie Williams re-signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday after being released earlier in the week.
The Steelers cut Williams so they could activate tight end Matt Kranchick to play last Sunday night against Cleveland, but Kranchick was waived Saturday.
Williams, a 13-season veteran, spent most of last season as a Steelers starter, but lost his job to Ike Taylor late in training camp and was activated for only three of the team's first eight games.
Also, rookie Trai Essex, a third-round draft pick, could make his first career start at left tackle today in Baltimore, replacing Marvel Smith. Smith is listed as doubtful with an ankle injury, though coach Bill Cowher said it would be a game-time decision whether he would play.
Smith did not practice last week, and the Steelers (7-2) normally require a player to practice at least once to play.
Essex has not played in an NFL game. He was inactive for each of the team's first nine games.
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