07 Sep

Cameron Johnston STARS in NFL debut

Former Aussie Rules player Cam Johnston has left fans in awe with an incredible performance on debut for the Philadelphia Eagles.

The rookie punter showed absolutely no nerves on the big stage of the NFL, unleashing a number of huge kicks to help the Eagles beat Atlanta 18-12 on Friday (AEST).

After a first-up effort of 58 yards, Johnston uncorked a massive 65-yard punt.

He finished up with six punts for 313 yards, at an average of 52.2 yards per punt.

Cameron Johnston reacts after being hit by Foye Oluokun as he punted the ball. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
But it was his shortest punt of the night – a 46-yard effort – that set the Eagles up for a match-winning, 11-yard touchdown by running back Jay Ajayi.

He also earned a crucial down-field penalty for his side when he was taken out late by Foye Oluokun.

Johnston, who grew up playing Aussie rules and was drafted by the Melbourne Demons in 2011, is battle-hardened for the pressure of the NFL after spending four years punting for Ohio State University in front of home crowds of more than 100,000.

Fans flocked to social media to praise the young Aussie.