New York Giants sign Cameron Johnston amid Jamie Gillan injury concerns
The New York Giants have made a strategic move by signing punter Cameron Johnston to their practice squad following a recent workout that featured six players, five of whom were punters. Among them were Jake Camarda, Pat O’Donnell, Brad Robbins, and Ryan Stonehouse, while defensive end Niko Lalos also participated, potentially ringing a bell for Giants fans.
The decision to add Johnston comes after the team terminated the practice squad contract of defensive back Myles Purchase, who was signed on November 25. Johnston, standing at 5 feet 11 inches and weighing 194 pounds, brings a wealth of experience to the roster. A product of Ohio State, he entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Philadelphia Eagles after the 2017 draft, where he played until 2020. His career has also included stints with the Houston Texans, Pittsburgh Steelers, and most recently, the Buffalo Bills.
Injury History and Recent Challenges
Johnston’s journey has been marred by injuries. He spent the entirety of the 2023 season on injured reserve due to a strained calf muscle while with the Texans. His struggles continued when he joined the Steelers, where he suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 1 of the 2024 season. This past summer, he vied for the punting job against Corliss Waitman but ultimately fell short. While with the Bills earlier this year, Johnston found himself on injured reserve once again due to a plantar foot injury. He was subsequently released from Buffalo’s injured reserve list with an injury settlement on November 12.
Despite these setbacks, Johnston is an eight-year NFL veteran with a notable track record. Over the course of his career, he has appeared in 48 games and boasts an impressive average of 47.0 yards per punt. His stats include 28 touchbacks and 78 punts placed inside the opponent’s 20-yard line, showcasing his capability as a reliable punter.
Current Situation with Jamie Gillan
The Giants’ decision to sign Johnston is particularly timely as their current punter, Jamie Gillan, is dealing with an undisclosed injury that could render him inactive for the upcoming game against Washington. The uncertainty surrounding Gillan’s status has added urgency to the Giants’ need for a dependable punter.
Niko Lalos’ Return
On another note, Niko Lalos, who previously donned the Giants uniform, also worked out with the team on Tuesday. Lalos joined the Giants as an undrafted free agent from Dartmouth in 2020, participating in six games and recording six tackles and an interception during his tenure. After a brief stint with the Saints, who he signed with during the 2023 offseason, Lalos was unable to secure a roster spot and later joined the Saints’ practice squad. He was also drafted by the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL in 2022 but opted to pursue an NFL career instead.
As the Giants navigate their current roster challenges, including potential injuries and player signings, the coming days will be critical in determining their path forward this season.
