National Football League

Ill Mendenhall misses Steelers' practice

Published Oct. 15, 2009 10:55 p.m. ET

foxsports

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall has missed practice with flu-like symptoms, allowing Willie Parker to get more carries with the starters as he returns from a two-week layoff with a toe injury.

Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians says whether Mendenhall or Parker will get the majority of the carries Sunday against Cleveland likely won't be decided until game time.

Mendenhall, a first-round draft pick last year, ran for 165 yards against San Diego and 77 against Detroit after Parker injured his left big toe Sept. 27 against Cincinnati. The Steelers are hopeful Mendenhall can practice Friday.