isn't the most likely scenario here that the Steelers keep both backs and go RBBC for the foreseeable future? unless someone is going to drop a load of money on free agent FWP, he'll likely want to stay in Pittsburgh, and the Steelers will want to keep him assuming the price is right.

as you say, 2009 can change things, but darn near every team needs to have an RBBC of 2 (or 3) RBs, and so even if FWP walks as a free agent, the Steelers will need to get another RB to share the load. I like Mendenhall but too many fantasy folks act like he will suddenly be a #1 RB, but the days of clear-cut #1 RBs are largely gone. It's not an accident that RBBC is so common -- defenders are too big and the punishment is too much for a single back to carry a huge load. Yes, there are exceptions, but considering that Mendenhall got hurt the first time he was breathed hard on, I don't know how many eggs the Steelers are going to want to put in the Mendenhall basket in 2010, unless he has a fantastic 2009, which won't happen unless FWP gets hurt early.

Bottom line -- Mendenhall's a good guy to have but let's not get carried away.

Great points all around, veggie b. I agree with your sentiment. You can believe that Mendenhall is a good talent and the Steelers are good at maximizing the draft without believing that he's the next fantasy god.

i wouldnt be so sure as to say that FWP will be gone next year. i guess all mendenhall dynasty owners are of course hoping that they dont resign him, but i doubt many teams will hand him a huge contract. he's been in steady decline, and like u said, could have another down year.

id say he'd be more likely to resign than not, unless mendenhall blows them away this season. even still, doesnt mendenhall's injury troubles equate to them getting another reliable back to help out? i would say this is a RBBC for a couple years to come, rather than mendenhall taking over, FWP or no FWP. i think its hard to see Bettis like production out of this backfield, but more of an even split between them like last year. of the few things we know...
-FWP will break-down without help, hense Moore's surge last year.
-all three backs are very injury susceptable.
-and given that theyre comming of a super bowl, we should doubt that they would change much about the relative roles of the offense. not many championship teams do that.

so i could say its business as usual for that backfield, only hoping that mendenhall takes over Moore's role of last year, which is still a good role if FWP goes down. Will it be a fantasy goldmine come 2010.. highly doubtful given the work share to continue.

Mendenall was one of the best runners in last year's draft. while he didn't shine during his limited opportunities last season, he's a great guy to have if you're looking for upside in your fantasy draft come rounds 9 or 10.

The Steelers historically have rarely given vets a third contract. Not even a former team leader in Joey porter. The nfl gives RBs the cold shoulder once they approach 30. Those reasons plus his injury history will likely seal his fate. Mendenhall's day will come.

i agree with KM, there is a good chance that FWP leaves.

if he does, in 2010, than that makes mendenhall a clear-cut starter, even if they bring in another mid-level back to share carries. in turn, mendenhall will have the opportunity to overtake the role, but given his durability, i dont think he would holdup as a 300-350 carry back. i think, no FWP, and a 200-250 carry total with goaline touches and a few catches is the best one of his owners could hope for in 2010. he still has a lot to prove. but if u believe in FWP not returning, now is the time to get him.

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