As far as the MASH unit that is becoming the Steelers backfield, there is help on the way. After losing rookie Rashard Mendenhall to a fractured shoulder on Monday night, the team today brought back former back Najeh Davenport. The team also will sign another back, and all indications are that will be Gary Russell, who was released last week.
Davenport took over as the teams feature back last season after Willie Parker broke his leg in week 16 vs the Rams. The team was basically not near where it was once Parker went down. After Davenport had a decent game vs the Rams, he was ineffective in the playoff loss to the Jags.
It looks as if Davenport could see some playing time on Sunday in J-Ville, as Parker is going to for sure be out again this week with his sprained knee. The team placed Mendenhall (fractured shoulder) and guard Kendall Simmons (ruptured Achilles) on injured reserve.
The team released Davenport in June, and he wanted to go to either the Lions or Cardinals, but neither team showed much interest in him. Now he’ll get another shot with the Steelers, and could be vaulable as they are going to need help rushing the football till Parker can get back on the field.
2 Comments
Leave a Reply
Show Your Team Spirit
Get Your Steelers Tickets
Steelers Gab Newsletter
Sign up to receive our Steelers Gab newsletter, and keep up to date with all the latest Pittsburgh Steelers news.
mark
October 1, 2008 at 4:23 am
well, I guess it could be worse. I thought Gary Russell was already re-signed? Any way, what about Shawn Alexander or Ron Dayne? I didnt think they had jobs yet. I think if they somehow pull out a win this weekend, things will start to right themselves.A week off might be what this team needs.
Chad
October 1, 2008 at 6:51 am
I agree with Mark’s comments. Najeh knows our system and the coaching so its a natural fit to bring him in as well as Gary Russell. Some power backs might be the key to helping Ben stay upright. Jax is gonna be a tough one!