The Facts:
Pittsburgh head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters that running back Rashard Mendenhall has been cleared to practice Wednesday. Mendenhall tweaked his surgically-repaired Achilles in the Steelers 29-26 loss to Tennessee Titans in Week 6 and was sidelined for the team's last two games. Tomlin expects Mendenhall to suit up for Sunday's Week 9 contest against the New York Giants. He declined to name which running back would draw the start.
Reported by Allie Fontana on Twitter
Fantasy Football Diehards Line:
While it's good news that Mendenhall has been cleared to practice this week, his fantasy owners are left to wonder whether backfield teammate Jonathan Dwyer has done enough to replace him as the Steelers starting running back. In addition to putting together two consecutive 100-yard games—the first Steeler back to do so since Willie Parker in 2008—Dwyer has also sparked the offensive with his bruising style and ability to gain yards after the carry (5.16 YPC). Dwyer is nursing a right quad injury, but there's nothing to indicate that he won't play this Sunday. Heading into Week 9, we expect Pittsburgh to employ a committee of sorts involving Dwyer and Mendenhall. Isaac Redman is expected to practice this week, and if healthy, could also see some touches. As long as the quad injury doesn't limit him, Dwyer should be a solid RB2/flex start, with Mendenall best used as a flex play. Check back later in the week for updated information on the Steelers backfield.
Profile
Home
