History of Rashard Mendenhall in Timeline

Rashard Mendenhall is a retired NFL running back known for his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Drafted in 2008, he was instrumental in their Super Bowl XLIII victory. After his successful stint with the Steelers, he briefly played for the Arizona Cardinals before retiring.

June 19, 1987: Birth of Rashard Mendenhall

Rashard Jamal Mendenhall was born on June 19, 1987.

2005: High School Football Star

In 2005, Mendenhall played in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl after a successful high school football career.

2005: College Football Debut

Rashard Mendenhall began his college football journey with the Illinois Fighting Illini in 2005.

2006: Breakout Season at Illinois

Mendenhall had a breakout season at Illinois in 2006, significantly increasing his rushing yards and touchdowns.

April 24, 2008: Appearance on "The Best Damn Sports Show Period"

On April 24, 2008, Rashard Mendenhall appeared on "The Best Damn Sports Show Period".

July 25, 2008: Signing with the Steelers

On July 25, 2008, Mendenhall signed a five-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

2008: Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers

In 2008, Rashard Mendenhall was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the NFL Draft.

2008: Season-Ending Injury

Mendenhall's rookie season in 2008 ended prematurely due to a fractured shoulder.

2009: Breakout Game Against the Chargers

Mendenhall had a breakout performance in a 2009 game against the San Diego Chargers, rushing for 165 yards and two touchdowns.

2009: Successful Season with the Steelers

Mendenhall had a successful season with the Steelers in 2009, rushing for over 1,000 yards.

2010: Pro Bowl Season and Super Bowl Appearance

In 2010, Mendenhall had another strong season, helping the Steelers reach Super Bowl XLV, where they lost to the Green Bay Packers.

May 2, 2011: Controversial Tweets on Osama bin Laden's Death

On May 2, 2011, Mendenhall sparked controversy with tweets expressing controversial views on the death of Osama bin Laden.

2011: Difficult Season Marred by Injury

Mendenhall faced a challenging 2011 season hampered by injuries.

January 1, 2012: ACL Tear

Mendenhall suffered a torn ACL in a game against the Cleveland Browns on January 1, 2012.

December 12, 2012: Suspension by the Steelers

On December 12, 2012, the Steelers suspended Mendenhall for conduct detrimental to the team.

March 13, 2013: Signing with the Arizona Cardinals

Mendenhall signed with the Arizona Cardinals on March 13, 2013.

March 2014: Retirement from the NFL

Mendenhall announced his retirement from the NFL in March 2014 at the age of 26.

April 11, 2019: Accusations of Racism Against Ben Roethlisberger

On April 11, 2019, Mendenhall publicly accused his former teammate, Ben Roethlisberger, of racism, later attempting to clarify his remarks.

May 8, 2023: Inducted into the Illini Hall of Fame

On May 8, 2023, Mendenhall was inducted into the Illini Hall of Fame.

December 18, 2023: Controversial Post on Race and Football

On December 18, 2023, Mendenhall faced backlash for a social media post suggesting an "All-Black vs. All-White" football game, which drew criticism for its racially charged nature.