Does Rashard Mendenhall's Last Chance Come Against the Chargers?

(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

The Pittsburgh Steelers formula for first round rookies is simple. Let them watch the first year, and expect them to contribute their second.

It happened to Troy Polamalu, who played sparingly his rookie season. Same with Lawrence Timmons, Santonio Holmes, Heath Miller, and this year with Ziggy Hood. With the exception of Ben Roethlisberger, you can date back to the '90s before finding a rookie that contributed right off the bat, Alan Faneca (1998).

When you are a team that drafts best available player, instead of for need, this is a luxury you can afford.

When Rashard Mendenhall was selected in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft, everyone wondered why? Running back was not the Steelers greatest area of weakness, but again, best available, in the Steelers opinion, was Mendenhall.

After having his rookie season cut short in week four against the Ravens, Mendenhall had to watch from the sidelines. Unfortunately, in the NFL, there are no red-shirt years.

In 2009, Mendenhall was expected to contribute, as all second year players are. So far, the Steelers have gotten no bang for their buck.

Some people, think Mendenhall should be let go, while others think he should be starting. Come Sunday, against the Chargers, we will find out which side has the upper hand.

Willie Parker will not play against the Chargers, due to a turf toe injury. Mewelde Moore is not suited to be an every down back, and it is time for the former first rounder to take the torch, and run (pun intended) with it.

Over the last two weeks of the season, the Steelers have committed to running the ball, which I believe is the reason for their failure, but that is for another article.

The Chargers come into Pittsburgh on Sunday night, in front of a national TV audience, bringing the NFL's 26th ranked rushing defense, allowing just over 142 yards per game.

In addition, Shawne Merriman is on the injury report as questionable, and massive defensive tackle Jamal Williams is on injured reserve.

If Mendenhall ever had a chance to show the Steelers, and Steeler Nation that the team made the right decision in drafting him, now is the time.

If he does not play like he is able to, then his career in Pittsburgh may be as good as over.

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