The Pittsburgh Steelers brought back punter Corliss Waitman in 2024 after fans had originally wanted him retained following the 2021 season. Waitman replaced Pressley Harvin III, who had previously held the position as a draft pick. With three years of professional experience, Waitman now carries the responsibility of proving if he can be the team’s long-term punter, especially as the Steelers transition into a new coaching era. His performance has shown some promise, but questions remain about whether he has what the team truly needs.
Evaluating Waitman’s Performance Compared to League Standards
Historically, the Steelers have struggled to find elite punting talent, often posting averages below the league norm. While Corliss Waitman posted the best punting statistics in Steelers history, those figures are only marginally better than league averages. For example, in the last two seasons, he averaged 41.7 and 41.9 yards per punt, barely outpacing the league’s respective averages of 41.3 and 41.6 yards. Despite these numbers, Waitman has not ranked among the top 10 punters in key categories such as net punting yards or punts inside the 20-yard line, which reflect crucial field position advantages.
Inconsistencies and Challenges in Waitman’s Game
Waitman’s play has suffered from notable inconsistency, the very issue that led to Pressley Harvin III being replaced. His punt outcomes vary widely from powerful kicks to errant shanks, causing unpredictability on the field. Unlike Harvin, Waitman does not have a particularly powerful leg, although his rate of poor punts is somewhat lower. Still, this inconsistency raises doubts about his reliability as the Steelers seek steadiness in their special teams unit.
New Coaching Direction and What It Means for the Punting Role
The Steelers have overhauled their coaching staff after recent playoff disappointments. Longtime special teams coordinator Danny Smith, known for his strategic approach that emphasized short punts aimed at limiting returns and directing kicks toward sidelines, has been replaced by Danny Crossman. With Mike Tomlin’s resignation and the arrival of Mike McCarthy as head coach, the team’s punting philosophy may shift significantly. This raises the question of whether Waitman fits the new system and if his style will align with the expectations under this fresh leadership.
The Bigger Picture for the Steelers’ 2025 Season
Coming off another early playoff exit, the Steelers face uncertainty as they assess their roster and coaching direction. The organization is at a crossroads, evaluating who should remain, who might see expanded roles, and where changes are necessary. The punter position, historically inconsistent, is part of that critical evaluation. Whether Corliss Waitman secures his role will depend largely on his ability to adjust and meet the demands set by Mike McCarthy and Danny Crossman as they seek to rebuild and strengthen the team’s special teams unit.
“You never know if you’re going to get a booming punt or a shank.” ? Danny Crossman, Special Teams Coordinator
