Pittsburgh Review

LATROBE, Pa. – Signing an unrestricted free agent punter doesn't garner the same attention as adding a key linebacker or a starting quarterback with a Super Bowl win. However, acquiring Cameron Johnston on a 3-year, $9 million deal, including a $2.875 million signing bonus to replace Pressley Harvin III, has proven significant.

During the 2023 season with Harvin as the punter, the Steelers ranked 30th in the NFL in average per punt. Individually, Harvin ranked 31st in gross average and 29th in net average. In contrast, Johnston, who punted for the Houston Texans from 2021-23, was 15th in gross average at 47.7 yards and 4th in net average at 44.0 yards.

During Saturday's practice at Saint Vincent College, Johnston impressed with long, high punts placed near the sideline. During special teams drills focused on punting, he launched several punts over 60 yards.

Highlighting this performance may seem odd following an intense practice session less than 24 hours earlier at Latrobe Stadium during Friday Night Lights. Coach Mike Tomlin explained: "A really productive day today," said Tomlin. "The guys gave it all to us last night... It's our intention to work hard but also smart... We had several periods on a short field... We had some veteran players minimized today... They gave us a lot (Friday night), and that's part of this process."

Tomlin continued: "They gotta go hard, and we've got to make good judgments as coaches... I liked the work that we got done today... Sunday will be a big day – short-yardage, goal-line competition will be hot."

In other practice highlights:

**7-SHOTS Drill**

The defense bounced back after losing Friday night's drill 7-0 by winning Saturday's drill 4-3 despite trailing early.

Justin Fields led the offense to a quick lead with a touchdown run followed by two end-zone passes to George Pickens. The defense responded when either Isaiahh Loudermilk or Montravius Adams batted down Fields' pass.

Kyle Allen then threw an interception to Thomas Graham Jr., attempted an unsuccessful pass across the field under pressure from DeMarvin Leal for another defensive stop.

**Notes**

Beanie Bishop recorded another interception for the defense by anticipating and intercepting a quick throw intended for his receiver and returning it for what would have been a pick-six.

**Tomlin's Injury Update**

"The great thing today is we had no additional negativity from a health standpoint," Tomlin said. "Things are status quo with the guys on that list."

Sunday's practice at Saint Vincent College is scheduled to begin at 1:55 p.m.

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