Steelers running back Willie Parker has missed two games with a toe injury. In his absence, 2008 first-rounder Rashard Mendenhall has stepped in and stepped up, raising concerns that Parker might not have a job upon returning to health.
But Parker has practiced each of the last two days, and Mendenhall missed Thursday’s practice due to an illness.
Mendenhall reportedly has flu-like symptoms, and he’s expected to practice on Friday.
The identity of the ball carrier who gets the most touches is expected to be determined at game time on Sunday, when the Browns come to town.
The best news for the Steelers is that the safety Troy Polamalu (knee) has fully participated in practice for a second straight day, and he is expected to return to action for the first time since September 10, the first game of the regular season.