Participant: P Corliss Waitman
Inventory Worth: Up
Reasoning: Particular groups coordinator Danny Smith left the door open for Corliss Waitman to compete for the Steelers’ punting job. He stuffed in ably final season, however their starter, Cameron Johnston, is again from damage. Waitman is youthful, although not by a lot — practically 30 already. However he has the potential to develop if he really has consistency for as soon as in his profession.
The Steelers signed Cameron Johnston final yr to unravel their punting troubles. He solely lasted two punts, struggling a season-ending damage within the opener. Happily for Pittsburgh, Corliss Waitman stepped in and stepped up.
Though his numbers have been pretty common in comparison with the remainder of the league, Waitman’s efficiency suited the Steelers fairly effectively. Actually, he posted the very best web punting common ever recorded in Steelers historical past.
The factor is, that Steelers document is under Cameron Johnston’s profession web punting common. He’s, or was, one of many easiest punters within the sport. So even when Corliss Waitman served the Steelers effectively by their requirements, Johnston has the confirmed observe document.
Nonetheless, it’s onerous to disregard Danny Smith’s feedback from earlier this offseason. Whereas he didn’t immediately say it, he appeared to anticipate a summer season competitors. He saved utilizing the phrase “fascinating” when speaking about Johnston and Waitman and the way issues may play out.
I’d assume the Steelers are ready to depart this choice in Smith’s fingers. If Smith thinks Waitman is the higher punter this summer season, will they maintain him? In the event that they have been to commerce or launch Johnston, they’d save $5 million over the subsequent two years.
Whereas Johnston has a years-long document of efficiency, he’s additionally coming off a significant damage. He could also be booming punts within the spring, however how will he look in a sport? The Steelers must be honest to themselves and to Corliss Waitman and choose this competitors based mostly on present efficiency.
With the brand new league yr underway and the Steelers turning their roster over, it’s as soon as once more time to “take inventory.” It took some time, however we lastly noticed a few of that change the group talked about after the season ended. Actually, the transfer to commerce for WR DK Metcalf qualifies as a change, to not point out the accompanying contract. Oh, and so they additionally traded some man named George Pickens, which individuals discovered vital.
There’s nonetheless an extended option to go earlier than we all know what this Steelers group goes to appear like. The mud is settled on each free company and the 2025 NFL Draft. What different strikes may the group make, maybe sudden acquisitions or departures? In the event that they traded for one participant, they may definitely commerce for an additional, or commerce one away. It is a Steelers group ravenous for postseason success, however how determined are they for a playoff win in 2025?
