The Pittsburgh Steelers recognized the need for a change in their punting game and subsequently welcomed Cameron Johnston to the team. Johnston brings a wealth of experience and a powerful leg to the position, capable of effectively altering field position and placing opponents in challenging situations with his precision punts. At 32 years old, he boasts six seasons in the NFL under his belt, having split his career evenly between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Houston Texans.
In a move to solidify their special teams, Johnston penned a lucrative three-year contract worth $9,000,000 with the Steelers. This deal includes a substantial signing bonus of $2,875,000, along with $2,875,000 guaranteed. With an average annual salary of $3,000,000, Johnston's arrival signifies the Steelers' commitment to enhancing their punting game and overall team performance.
In a recent appearance on Breakfast With Harf on RSN, an Australian radio show, Johnston discussed his decision to join the esteemed Steelers organization.
"Yeah, an incredible organization. To be a part of it, we were super excited. They've got a proven track record, so to be a part of it, try and help win some games on Sundays, it will be a lot of fun.”
Expressing his enthusiasm for this new chapter in his NFL career, Johnston conveyed his excitement about the opportunity to contribute to the team's success. With the Steelers known for their storied history and passionate fan base, Johnston eagerly anticipates making his mark on the team and embracing the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.
During the 2023 NFL season, Johnston emerged as a standout punter for the Texans, showcasing an impressive average of 47.6 yards per punt, coupled with a solid net average of 44 yards. His remarkable performance included unleashing a booming 74-yard punt, a testament to his exceptional leg strength and precision on the field.
What truly sets Johnston apart is his ability to consistently pin opponents deep within their territory, with an astounding 30 punts artfully placed inside the coveted 20-yard line. It's evident that Johnston's contributions significantly will bolster the Steelers' special teams unit in 2024. Having Johnston as their punter will aid in providing crucial field position advantages throughout the season.
Comparing Johnston's stellar performance to his predecessor, Pressley Harvin III, highlights a stark contrast in punting proficiency. Harvin, drafted by the Steelers in the seventh round in 2021, faced immense pressure to deliver results on the field. However, despite his potential, Harvin struggled to find his rhythm during his tenure in Pittsburgh, ultimately falling short of expectations.
With an average of 43.7 yards per punt over three seasons, Harvin's performance paled in comparison to Johnston's remarkable output. Additionally, while Harvin managed to pin opponents inside the 20-yard line 75 times, it's clear that his overall impact on special teams was lacking.
Steelers Hope To Have Found A Game-Changing Punter
With Johnston's arrival, the Steelers are poised to enter a new era of dominance in their special teams unit, fueled by his unwavering stability and reliability in the pivotal role of punter. As the Steelers bid farewell to the challenges of the past, they eagerly embrace the boundless potential embodied by Johnston, anticipating a resurgence in their overall performance.
Johnston's potential as a punter is undeniable, especially given the significant improvements seen in the Steelers' defense and the anticipated uptick in offensive production. As he takes the field, Johnston faces the unique position of stepping into the spotlight amidst the struggles of his predecessor, Harvin. While this may initially set the bar low in terms of expectations, there's no denying the pressure resting on Johnston's shoulders, particularly considering the investment made in his contract.
Mike Tomlin's characterization of Johnston as the "Belle of the Ball" speaks volumes about the high regard in which he's held within the Steelers organization. Such praise not only underscores Johnston's skill and potential, but also serves to further ignite the anticipation surrounding his impact on the team. At 32 years old, Johnston brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the punting position. He's poised to make his mark as a pivotal asset for the Steelers' success in the seasons to come.
More must-reads: