Veteran punter Cameron Johnston has found a new home in the NFL after his unexpected release from the Pittsburgh Steelers. The 33-year-old specialist, who many believed would reclaim his starting role in Pittsburgh this season, has officially signed with the Buffalo Bills, according to reports from NFL insiders.
The move comes just weeks after Johnston was one of the more surprising cuts made by the Steelers ahead of the 2025 campaign.
Johnston’s time in Pittsburgh was cut short by misfortune. He appeared in only one game for the Steelers, which came during Week 1 of the 2024 season against the Atlanta Falcons. Unfortunately, a serious injury suffered in that game sidelined him for the entire year.
While most analysts expected him to regain his role entering this season, the Steelers ultimately opted to stick with Corliss Waitman, who stepped in during Johnston’s absence and impressed the coaching staff.
For the Bills, Johnston brings a wealth of experience. Over the course of seven NFL seasons, he has averaged an impressive 47 yards per punt with a career net average of 41.8 yards across 96 games.
Buffalo made several roster adjustments on special teams this week, signing Johnston while parting ways with punter Brad Robbins. Robbins had filled in briefly but lacked Johnston’s consistency and track record.
By bringing in a seasoned veteran, the Bills are clearly aiming to solidify their special teams unit moving forward.
Johnston’s career path has taken him through multiple teams. He began with the Philadelphia Eagles, where his rookie average of 48.1 yards per punt in 2018 still stands among his best seasons.
After three years in Philadelphia, he joined the Houston Texans for another three-year stint, producing some of his career highs, including leading the NFL in total punts and punt yardage in 2021.
Johnston signed a multi-year deal with the Steelers ahead of the 2024 season, but his injury setback and salary cap implications opened the door for his release.
Now with Buffalo, Johnston has the chance to contribute immediately and face his former team later this year. If he remains on the roster, he will take the field against the Steelers in Week 13 when the Bills travel to Pittsburgh on November 30.
The move underscores the ever-changing nature of the NFL, where opportunities can shift quickly, and experienced players like Johnston continue to find ways to extend their careers in meaningful roles.
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