Former Ohio State standout’s 2024 NFL campaign ends just as it begins in Week 1 of the season

Injuries are a part of the game with any sport, especially football. They often are not fair and come at the worst of times. That is the case for a former Ohio State Buckeye who has made a solid NFL career.

On Sunday, punter Cameron Johnston made his first start for the Pittsburgh Steelers as their punter for the 2024 season. The veteran punter’s season ended just as quickly as it began.

Head coach Mike Tomlin revealed following the Steelers win over the Atlanta Falcons that Johnson had suffered a serious knee injury . The news was confirmed by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport on Monday morning that Johnston would miss the season.

"From a health standpoint, you know, Cam Johnston appears to have a serious injury,” said Coach Tomlin after the game. "I'll have an update for you next time we come together. It's a shame for him, this guy has been spectacular man, and through team development. He's an absolute stud, not only in his talents but his approach to business and so, you know, my heart goes out to him."

Johnston is in his seventh NFL season out of Ohio State where he played from 2013-16. The current Steelers punter spent his first three seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, then he went on to spend three seasons with the Houston Texans.

Over the course of his pro career, Johnston holds a 47.3-yard average punting the football on 447 punts. The former Buckeye has played in a total of 96 games and did not miss a game until his sixth NFL season.

It is an unfortunate ending to the 32-year-old’s 2024 season and he will now turn his attention to rehabbing and getting back on the football field. Johnston is often forgotten about but he is the best punter the Buckeyes have had over the past decade.

Related: Ohio State DE Jack Sawyer reveals true feelings on how the Week 2 blowout win over Western Michigan felt