Rashard Mendenhall was drafted out of Illinois as the 23rd pick overall in the 2008 draft.  He was billed as a durable back who could handle a heavy workload and take a hit.  Ray Lewis changed that description by knocking Mendenhall out for the season with one hit.

Mendenhall, only the second running back drafted in the first round by the Steelers (the other was Tim Worley from Georgia in 1989), is still an unknown commodity.  Willie Parker has proven he cannot handle all the carries, he is just not big or durable enough.

Going into Thursday’s preseason opener with the Cards in a pseudo-rematch of last years Super Bowl, Parker was ailing and Mendenhall saw some live action.  He ended the game with 24 yards on 9 carries (2.7 yards per carry average) with his longest run going for 7 yards.  It was not an earth-shattering performance by any means, but it at least showed the Steeler faithful that he is ready to accept a role with this team in 2009.

Limas Sweed, the 22nd pick in the second round ithe 2009 Draft, seemed like the guy they wanted when they picked him against the Cards Thursday.  He used his size to outjump defenders twice and made a great catch.  Sweed ended the game with two receptions for 56 yards, one reception was good for 45 yards.  Where was this guy last season?  He only caught 6 passes all year and missed the first five games.  I think he will put up significantly better numbers this year.  Someone surely had to tip Tomlin that the skinny guy from Texas can jump.  After all, Sweed was a four-year track star in high school with his best event being, what else, but the hurdles.

The only thing I don’t like is his number.  #14 should be on a quarterback or a placekicker.  Steeler fans will say he can wear number #103 if he can garner over 1,000 yards receiving in the next couple of seasons.

Mendenhall, Sweed, and Dixon are the future in Pittsburgh.  In my opinion, the future looks pretty bright.