NORMAL, Ill. - Apparently the state of Pennsylvania is big enough for the Mendenhall brothers, as former Illinois State running back Walter Mendenhall signed a free agent contract with the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday night and will be "The Keystone State" with his younger brother Rashard, of the Pittsburgh Steelers, both on NFL rosters.
"It's been a long, hard road," said Mendenhall. "I'm just thankful to God for the opportunity to extend my playing career. I'm just so excited right now and ready to get work."
Mendenhall will report to the Eagles Thursday for the team's rookie camp.
Mendenhall, who played in 10 games and started the final four games for the Redbirds, led Illinois State in rushing with 796 yards on 126 carries and 11 touchdowns. The Valley All-Newcomer Team selection posted four 100-yard rushing games, including a 225-yard rushing day against Youngstown State. The Skokie, Ill., native ranked fourth in league games for rushing yards with 108 yards per game.
Mendenhall joins former Redbirds Laurént Robinson (St. Louis) and Aveion Cason (Detroit) on current NFL rosters.
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