Lost in the shuffle this off-season, the Pittsburgh Steelers starting punter position was somewhat up for grabs. While it was unlikely that second-year punter Pressley Harvin III would lose the job, it wasn't a guarantee after his rough rookie season. Now, he's officially won the job after an encouraging training camp. The Steelers began roster cuts on Tuesday, and backup punter Cameron Nizialek was one of the guys that were cut.
Credit: Jordan Schofield/SteelerNation (JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
Beyond Nizialek, defensive lineman Doug Costin was the other notable player released. Costin signed with the team over a month ago to add to the defensive line depth. He had an uphill climb in trying to make the 53-man roster, as the team's defensive line seems mostly set. That held especially true, as guys like the Davis twins, Carlos and Khalil, have impressed throughout training camp and into the preseason opener against the Seattle Seahawks.
In addition to Nizialek and Costin, offensive tackle Jake Dixon and center Chris Owen were released from the team. The Steelers also signed rookie guard William Dunkle, an undrafted free agent who was cut by the Philadelphia Eagles a few months ago. Dunkle was an All-American in 2021 after four years at San Diego State. On the team's official depth chart, there's only five guards on the team, so he brings in some depth. Kendrick Green suffered an injury on Saturday and while he returned, Dunkle provides some insurance.
Nizialek was signed as the competitor for the punting position with Harvin. In Saturday's victory, he punted four times for 177 yards, an average of 44.3 yards per punt. Nizialek landed one of those punts inside the 20-yard line, and he'll likely end up on another team. Before the Steelers, he played a few games for the Atlanta Falcons in 2021. Harvin will now be expected to take a step forward in his second season in the NFL.
Credit: Jordan Schofield/SteelerNation (JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
Anthony Miller and Karl Joseph were officially added to the Reserve/Injured List, albeit ending their seasons. These moves cut the roster down to 85 players, which was required by 4 p.m. Next, the team will need to cut down to 80 players by Tuesday, August 23 before the eventual 53-man roster on Tuesday, August 30.
Will any of those guys that were cut end up on the practice squad? What are your expectations for Harvin in his second season? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!
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