Overview

• In the fourth quarter vs. Seattle, Johnson let a kickoff that landed in the field of play roll into the end zone, allowing George Holani to recover for a touchdown under the NFL’s new rule.
• Mike Tomlin said Johnson “probably” won’t return kicks in Week 3 and made the move temporary, contingent on Johnson’s response in practice.
• The coach said he has not settled on a replacement and “hasn’t even begun to address” the role after benching Johnson.
• Kenneth Gainwell handled the next return with Jaylen Warren also deep, and other options under evaluation include practice-squad back Trey Sermon and receiver Roman Wilson, per team and media reports.
• Johnson acknowledged the mistake and has had a limited early role on offense and special teams, as the error factored into Seattle’s 31-17 win.