The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially signed punter Cameron Johnston to a one-year contract, securing his return to the team for the upcoming season. Johnston, who spent last year and the 2025 offseason with Pittsburgh, is back despite losing the starting punter role during last year’s training camp.
Background on Johnston’s Injury and Competition with Corliss Waitman
Johnston originally joined the Steelers on a three-year, $9 million deal before the 2024 season but suffered a severe knee injury in the first week against the Atlanta Falcons after a collision with safety Miles Killebrew during a punt block. Corliss Waitman took over punting duties for Pittsburgh following Johnston’s injury and secured the starting job after an intense training camp competition in 2025 that showcased strong play from both specialists.
Johnston’s Stints with Buffalo Bills and New York Giants
After the Steelers released him, Johnston signed with the Buffalo Bills and appeared in three games, averaging 44 yards per punt. Unfortunately, he sustained another injury in a Week Four game versus the New Orleans Saints and was subsequently placed on injured reserve before receiving an injury settlement in November. Johnston then briefly joined the New York Giants, participating in one game in Week 15 where he averaged 45.5 yards on four punts before being released ahead of Christmas.
Steelers’ Punting Situation and Future Plans
Despite Waitman starting in 2025, his inconsistency and status as a restricted free agent without a tender have led Pittsburgh to pivot back to Johnston as their primary punter. The team is expected to add competition through the draft and potentially other signings, aiming both to challenge Johnston and to preserve his leg during offseason and preseason workouts. By bringing back a player familiar with the roster, especially under the new coaching trio of special teams coordinators Danny Crossman and Derius Swinton II, the Steelers are banking on Johnston’s experience to stabilize that position.
Career Summary and Significance of the Re-Signing
Throughout his NFL tenure, Johnston has averaged 47.2 gross yards on 458 punts across multiple franchises including the Philadelphia Eagles and Houston Texans. Notably, he led the league in total punts and yards in 2021. His return to Pittsburgh reflects the team’s desire for a reliable punter familiar with their system amidst a period of transition and uncertainty in special teams.
“We have signed P Cameron Johnston to a one-year contract. @BordasLaw” – Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers)
https://twitter.com/steelers/status/2031468418562429083
