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Steelers vs Redskins: Reggie Dunn replaces David Gilreath as punt returner

One muffed punt may have not only cost David Gilreath his spot on the receiving depth chart, but also his spot as a punt returner, which now belongs to rookie Reggie Dunn.

USA TODAY Sports

If rookie receiver Reggie Dunn is going to earn a roster spot with the Pittsburgh Steelers, it will be on special teams as a return specialist, on both kickoff and punt units. Thanks to David Gilreath, Dunn is now listed on the depth chart at both positions.

Before the preseason opener against the New York Giants, Dunn was only listed as the third kick returner behind LaRod Stephens-Howling and Emmanuel Sanders. He was not mentioned at all as a punt returner. Gilreath was listed second on the punt team behind Antonio Brown and ahead of rookie Markus Wheaton.

Now, Gilreath is not listed under either return position after muffing a punt against the Giants. Wheaton has moved up to second punt returner, and Dunn has taken over the third spot.

Gilreath also fell a notch on the receiving depth chart to rookie Justin Brown, but remains ahead of Dunn. However, Dunn caught his only target of the evening, only helping his chances of surviving final cuts if he can continue to excel not only on special teams but as an offensive weapon as well.

Look for Dunn to receive more opportunities to prove himself worthy of a roster spot when the Steelers hit the road to meet the Washington Redskins for both teams' second preseason contest on Monday night.

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