Steelers Cut Punter Johnston Saving $2.5M Amid Competition

The Pittsburgh Steelers have decided to release punter Cameron Johnston, naming Corliss Waitman as their starting punter for the 2025 season. Waitman, who took over after Johnston's season-ending knee injury in 2024, outperformed Johnston with superior hang time and net yardage during the preseason, and his role as holder for All-Pro kicker Chris Boswell contributed to preserving the successful kicking operation. The Steelers valued Waitman's left-footed punts, which cause different ball spins and can disrupt returners, while Johnston is expected to find a role with another NFL team. The move also provides the Steelers with significant salary cap savings, cutting over $2.5 million in both 2025 and 2026. Despite a close competition throughout the offseason and preseason, the decision reflects the team's preference for Waitman's overall impact on special teams. Meanwhile, the Vikings also recently concluded a punter competition, releasing rookie Oscar Chapman in favor of incumbent Ryan Wright, highlighting the importance of specialists in NFL roster decisions.