Pittsburgh Steelers' Victory Marred by Serious Injury to Key Punter

 The Pittsburgh Steelers were confident about their kicking game heading into the 2024 season. Chris Boswell demonstrated this confidence by making six field goals in the team's 18-10 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. Another key contributor was new punter Cameron Johnston, but he sustained a serious knee injury during the game, as described by Coach Mike Tomlin.

Coach Tomlin expressed his sympathy for Johnston, stating, "My heart goes out to him," according to the Post-Gazette.

NFL Media reports that Johnston's injury will end his season. He was injured when his leg was hit during a punt late in the fourth quarter. A penalty was called against the Steelers on that play, leading to Boswell stepping in to make his first career punt while Johnston received medical attention. Boswell’s punt traveled 43 yards, helping secure the victory.

Johnston, who was signed this offseason after the release of Pressley Harvin III, had been successful with the Steelers, averaging 51.5 yards on two punts during the game. The Steelers are now looking for a replacement for Johnston. Available options include Pressley Harvin and Matt Haack, an experienced punter who played one game for the Browns last season.