Australian punter Mitch Wishnowsky has been released by the Buffalo Bills, ending his tenure with the NFL team after one season. According to NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero, the Bills informed Wishnowsky of their decision to move forward with rookie seventh-round draft pick Tommy Doman Jr. as their new punter.
Wishnowsky appeared in 13 games last season for Buffalo, recording 38 punts with an average distance of 45.3 yards and a longest punt of 62 yards. Despite these solid figures from the previous season, his preseason performance this year fell short of expectations. Over three punts, Wishnowsky averaged just 42 yards and was notably hampered by a 19-yard punt during Buffalo’s recent game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Perth native is now likely to seek opportunities elsewhere in the NFL following his release. Prior to joining the Bills, Wishnowsky spent seven seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, where he established himself as a reliable punter in the league. The Bills’ decision to turn to Doman Jr. reflects a team preference for fresh talent in their special teams unit as they head into the new season.