Putting a bow and final review on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offseason as training camp is only days away. Today, a look at special teams, the changes made to the unit, and what to watch for over the next five weeks as we race toward the season opener against the Atlanta Falcons.
Previously, we focused on the offense and defense. We’ll conclude with special teams, now under the guidance of new coordinator Danny Crossman.
Kicker
Chris Boswell remains Pittsburgh’s trusted starter and now has a contract extension in hand to secure his future with the team. Exiting the summer healthy is his main goal, and it’s good to hear Crossman doesn’t plan on upsetting Boswell’s schedule.
Undrafted rookie Laith Marjan is the other leg in camp. Marjan has a strong one and can hit from 55-plus yards, but he struggled down the stretch last season. Finding consistency and avoiding slumps will be critical. He should also handle kickoff duties.
Marjan has no path to make the 53-man roster, but the Steelers have plenty of examples of second legs finding traction elsewhere. Just ask Matthew Wright or Ben Sauls.
Punter
Pittsburgh flirted with a second punter all offseason but only briefly rostered one in the spring. Cameron Johnston is the only punter on the roster and returns after losing a battle with Corliss Waitman last summer.
Johnston’s spent more time battling knee injuries than punting the past two seasons, but still has a stranglehold on the job. His familiarity with the team and as Boswell’s holder are pluses in his corner.
It will take a poor summer to compel Pittsburgh to move on.
Long Snapper
Christian Kuntz returns as Pittsburgh’s starter. After the team released Cal Adomitis in June, Kuntz is now the only snapper on the team.
Kuntz struggled towards the end of last year, but there’s no reason to believe his job is in jeopardy. However, it’s worth noting Kuntz is entering the final year of his contract.
Kuntz will handle snapping duties throughout the summer. If he’s unavailable, Logan Lee could again fill in. Cole Holcomb also has an emergency snapper background.
Returner
Fourth-round pick Kaden Wetjen was drafted primarily as a returner after being one of college football’s best. He must prove that investment with smart decisions, perfect ball security, and a couple of big plays. Wetjen certainly has the skill set to do it. He should get first crack on kicks and punts.
Pittsburgh will need at least another kick returner opposite. That job is up for grabs. Jaylen Warren returned kicks last year, but it’s less than ideal to have an important offensive piece handle those duties. Eli Heidenreich and Lew Nichols figure to see summer work in the role.
Mike Tomlin was against defensive players trying their hand. Mike McCarthy could be more open to allowing D’Shawn Jamison to get a look. He had two scores at Texas.
Assuming Wetjen becomes the starting punt returner, Pittsburgh still needs a backup. Roman Wilson has limited return experience but should get a look at kicks and punts to increase his versatility and value beyond his receiver position. Donte Kent, health willing, could also get an opportunity. Max Hurleman returned punts at Notre Dame and should also be in the lines during training camp.