In a surprising move, the Steelers have activated Rashard Mendenhall from the physically unable to perform list.

Pittsburgh general manager Kevin Colbert said as recently as last week that he expected Mendenhall to begin the year on the reserve/PUP list. That would have ruled Mendenhall out for the first six weeks of the season.

The Steelers are dealing with depth issues at running back that are compounded by injuries to Mendenhall and Isaac Redman.