Pittsburgh Steelers Sign Punter Corliss Waitman Following Injury to Cameron Johnston
In a significant move for the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team has announced the signing of Corliss Waitman, a punter, to replace Cameron Johnston, who suffered a season-ending knee injury during a recent game. This decision comes as the Steelers look to bolster their special teams unit ahead of the upcoming weeks in the 2024 NFL season.
Background on Corliss Waitman
Corliss Waitman, 29, is no stranger to the Steelers organization. He first joined the team as an undrafted free agent from South Alabama in 2020. His journey with the Steelers has been marked by multiple stints; he was initially released after the 2021 NFL Draft but returned later that year. During his previous time with the Steelers, he made a notable impact, averaging 60.5 yards per punt in a game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Waitman also spent the 2022 season with the Denver Broncos, where he averaged 46.6 yards per punt with a net average of 41.4 yards. His longest punt during that season was 59 yards, showcasing his strong leg and ability to perform under pressure.
The Injury to Cameron Johnston
The Steelers' decision to sign Waitman was prompted by the unfortunate injury to Cameron Johnston, who was injured when a player from the Atlanta Falcons was blocked into him during a punt. Johnston's injury is significant, as it leaves the Steelers without a key player in their special teams unit. The team is now looking to Waitman to step in and fill the void left by Johnston.
Reactions and Implications
The signing of Waitman has been met with optimism from both fans and analysts. His familiarity with the Steelers' system and previous experience in the league make him a suitable candidate to take over punting duties. Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network reported the signing, emphasizing the urgency of the move given Johnston's injury.
What This Means for the Steelers
With Waitman back in the fold, the Steelers are hoping to maintain their competitive edge in the league. Special teams play a crucial role in the overall success of a team, and having a reliable punter is essential. Waitman's previous performances indicate that he can handle the pressure and deliver when it matters most.
The Steelers' coaching staff will likely work closely with Waitman to ensure he is fully integrated into the team's game plan as they prepare for their upcoming matchups. His ability to perform under pressure will be tested as he steps into a role that is critical for field position and overall game strategy.
The Pittsburgh Steelers' decision to sign Corliss Waitman is a strategic move aimed at addressing the immediate need for a punter following Cameron Johnston's injury. With his experience and previous success in the league, Waitman is poised to make a significant impact on the Steelers' special teams as they navigate the challenges of the 2024 NFL season. As the team prepares for the upcoming games, all eyes will be on Waitman to see how he performs in this crucial role.
For more details on this story, you can check out the full articles on On3.com and Steelers.com.
