Rashard Mendenhall gained 4,236 yards carrying the ball in 72 games played in his career. His average yds per carry is at 3.9 and he carried the ball 1,081 times. He has rushed for 37 TD’s. Mendenhall ran for 58.8 yards on the ground per game in his career.
Mendenhall carried the ball 0 times for an average of 0.0 yards per attempt. In his 0 games in his last year, Rashard Mendenhall gained 0.0 yds per game and scored 0 different times on the ground. He had a long run of 0 yards. Rashard Mendenhall is a name that resonates with NFL fans, especially those who followed the Pittsburgh Steelers in the late 2000s and early 2010s. Known for his powerful running style and impressive stats, Mendenhall made a significant impact during his time in the league. In this article, we will explore his career, statistics, and some of the controversies that surrounded him, including the infamous Rashard Mendenhall tweet that sparked widespread discussion.
Early Life and College Career
Rashard Mendenhall was born on June 19, 1987, in Skokie, Illinois. He showed athletic prowess from a young age and excelled in football during his high school years at Niles West High School. His talent on the field earned him a scholarship to the University of Illinois, where he played college football for the Illinois Fighting Illini.
During his college career, Mendenhall quickly established himself as a formidable running back. In his junior year, he rushed for 1,681 yards and 17 touchdowns, setting a school record and earning the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year award. His impressive performance made him a top prospect for the NFL Draft.
NFL Career with the Pittsburgh Steelers
In 2008, Rashard Mendenhall was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round as the 23rd overall pick. His arrival brought high expectations, and he quickly began to prove his worth. Despite an early setback due to a shoulder injury in his rookie season, Mendenhall made a strong comeback in the following years.
Key Stats and Achievements
Mendenhall’s best seasons came in 2009 and 2010, where he showcased his abilities as a leading running back for the Steelers:
2009 Season: Mendenhall rushed for 1,108 yards and scored 7 touchdowns, helping the Steelers maintain a strong offensive presence.
2010 Season: He improved his stats with 1,273 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. His performance was instrumental in the Steelers’ journey to Super Bowl XLV.
Throughout his NFL career, Mendenhall accumulated impressive stats, including 4,236 rushing yards and 37 rushing touchdowns. His contributions to the Steelers were pivotal during his tenure with the team.
Transition to the Arizona Cardinals
In 2013, Mendenhall signed a one-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals. Although his time with the Cardinals was short-lived, he continued to be a reliable running back, adding 687 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns to his career stats before retiring in 2014.
The Infamous Rashard Mendenhall Tweet
Aside from his on-field accomplishments, Rashard Mendenhall is also remembered for a controversial tweet in 2011 that sparked significant public debate. Following the death of Osama bin Laden, Mendenhall tweeted expressing skepticism about celebrating death and questioned the events surrounding 9/11.
The tweet led to a backlash, with many criticizing Mendenhall’s remarks. It raised discussions about the intersection of sports figures and public discourse on sensitive political matters. Despite the controversy, Mendenhall stood by his message, emphasizing the importance of thinking critically and questioning popular narratives.
Life After Football
After retiring from professional football, Rashard Mendenhall pursued a career in writing and entertainment. He joined HBO’s hit series “Ballers” as a writer, transitioning from the gridiron to the writer’s room. His journey from NFL running back to television writer showcases his versatility and passion for storytelling.
Mendenhall’s Influence on the Game
Mendenhall’s career in the NFL may have been relatively brief, but his impact was undeniable. He demonstrated the potential of a running back to influence a team’s success, and his playing style remains a point of reference for aspiring athletes.
His transition from player to writer also highlights the diverse paths athletes can take after their sports careers end. Mendenhall’s story is a testament to the importance of adaptability and pursuing one’s passions beyond the field.
Conclusion
Rashard Mendenhall’s journey from a young athlete in Illinois to a successful NFL running back and later a writer is an inspiring story of resilience and transformation. His achievements on the field, coupled with his willingness to engage in broader societal conversations, make him a notable figure in the world of sports.
Whether remembered for his impressive stats, his thought-provoking tweet, or his second career in entertainment, Rashard Mendenhall continues to leave a lasting legacy that transcends his time in the NFL.
As fans and aspiring athletes look back on his career, Mendenhall’s story serves as a reminder of the diverse possibilities available to those who dare to pursue them.
