Steelers reinstate Mendenhall

Running back Rashard Mendenhall was reinstated by the Pittsburgh Steelers after being suspended one game for skipping the team's Week 14 game against the San Diego Chargers after learning he would be inactive.

Despite the suspension, Mendenhall and the Steelers are engaging in contract talks, ESPN.com reported Sunday.

He lost his starting job to Jonathan Dwyer two weeks ago and is also behind Isaac Redman on the depth chart.

Mendenhall is a free agent at the end of the season.

Mendenhall has played in just four games this season because of injuries. He made his season debut Oct. 4 because of ACL surgery. He then strained his right Achilles less than a week later.

He has 34 carries for 113 yards this season.