Torn ACL for Steelers' Mendenhall; surgery soon

January 2, 2012 4:15 pm
  • Rashard Mendenhall tore his ACL during this play of the Steelers versus Browns game.
    Peter Diana/Post-Gazette
    Rashard Mendenhall tore his ACL during this play of the Steelers versus Browns game.
  • Rashard Mendenhall is examined on the sideline after an injury in the first half of the game against the Cleveland Browns.
    Amy Sancetta/Associated Press
    Rashard Mendenhall is examined on the sideline after an injury in the first half of the game against the Cleveland Browns.
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By Ed Bouchette / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Rashard Mendenhall has a torn anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, in his right knee and will be placed on injured reserve by the Steelers.

The 24-year-old halfback will have surgery in one or two weeks after the swelling goes down, although a source told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette there is little swelling and that it appears there is no other damage in the knee.

Such injuries usually require 6-8 months of recuperation and rehabilitation before a player can return, although it can vary widely.

Rod Woodson famously had the injury in September 1995 and returned to play in the Super Bowl 4 1/2 months later.

The Steelers hope Mendenhall will be able to participate in training camp next August.


First Published January 2, 2012 4:15 pm
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