The Pittsburgh Steelers have a brewing battle at one of the most specialized — yet often overlooked — positions on the field: punter. Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed on Wednesday that the team’s competition between incumbent Pressley Harvin III and challenger Cameron Johnston is officially in full swing.
For Steelers fans, the idea of a punting competition might not be as glamorous as a quarterback controversy or a wide receiver duel, but make no mistake — this is a serious roster decision. In a league where field position can swing the momentum of an entire game, the battle for the punting job has very real implications for Pittsburgh’s 2025 season.
Tomlin’s Clear Stance
When asked about the situation during training camp, Tomlin didn’t leave any room for doubt. “They’re both varsity,” he said with his trademark confidence. “We’ve got two guys who are capable, and we’re going to let the competition play out.”
That’s as straightforward as it gets in the NFL. Tomlin is known for his direct, no-nonsense approach to roster decisions, and this one appears to be no different. His words suggest there is no predetermined winner — both Harvin and Johnston will get a fair shot to prove they can be the difference-maker in the special teams game.
The Case for Pressley Harvin III
Harvin, a seventh-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has been the Steelers’ punter for the last four seasons. Known for his powerful leg, Harvin has had moments where he’s flipped the field with booming kicks. However, inconsistency has plagued him at times, leading to questions about whether he can be the reliable presence the team needs.
Over his career, Harvin has shown flashes of excellence, but the NFL is a “what have you done for me lately” league. Inconsistent hang time and occasional mis-hits have given Johnston an opening to compete for the job. Still, Harvin’s experience with the Steelers’ system and his chemistry with the long snapper and special teams unit could give him a slight edge.
The Case for Cameron Johnston
Johnston, meanwhile, enters this competition as the newcomer but hardly as an underdog. The Australian-born punter spent time with the Philadelphia Eagles and Houston Texans before arriving in Pittsburgh. Over the years, Johnston has earned a reputation as one of the league’s more reliable punters, combining strong distance with excellent placement skills.
Unlike Harvin, Johnston’s consistency has been one of his calling cards. He’s adept at pinning opponents deep inside their own territory — a skill that could be especially valuable to a Steelers team that prides itself on defense-first football. If Johnston can maintain his usual level of play during camp and preseason games, he could make this a very difficult decision for Tomlin and his staff.
Why This Battle Matters
Special teams may not get the same headlines as offense or defense, but in tight games, the punter can be the hidden MVP. The Steelers’ defensive style thrives when opponents are forced to start drives deep in their own territory. A well-placed punt can tilt the field position battle and give Pittsburgh’s pass rush more opportunities to pressure quarterbacks.
Last season, Pittsburgh had several games decided by narrow margins. In those moments, every yard counts, and the punter’s role in flipping the field can’t be overstated. For a team that expects to be in the playoff hunt, having the right player in that role is critical.
Tomlin’s Approach to the Decision
True to form, Tomlin isn’t rushing to crown a winner. Instead, he plans to let the competition play out through training camp and the preseason. Both players will likely get equal opportunities in practice and exhibition games to showcase their abilities under live conditions.
“We’ll know when we know,” Tomlin said, emphasizing patience in the decision-making process. “I want to see them perform under pressure, in stadiums, in real situations.”
That mindset ensures the Steelers will have ample time to evaluate not just the raw numbers — like average punt distance or hang time — but also intangibles such as poise, consistency, and ability to execute in clutch moments.
Looking Ahead
The Steelers’ preseason games will offer the most revealing look at this competition. Fans can expect both Harvin and Johnston to get plenty of reps, possibly even alternating series to keep the evaluation process as fair as possible.
By the end of August, Pittsburgh will have to make its choice. Whether the winner is the powerful but sometimes inconsistent Harvin or the steady and precise Johnston, the decision will carry weight for the upcoming season.
In the end, Tomlin’s words say it all: “They’re both varsity.” That’s a compliment, but it’s also a challenge. In the NFL, talent alone doesn’t win you a job — you have to prove you’re the best option every single day. Over the next few weeks, Harvin and Johnston will have that chance, and the Steelers will be watching closely to see who earns the right to control one of the most crucial — if often overlooked — weapons in football.
