Rashard Mendenhall was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, and "believes" he'll make his 2012 debut against the Eagles.  Coach Mike Tomlin also thinks both James Harrison and Troy Polamalu will play in Sunday's game against the Eagles.

It would be a big lift for the 21st-ranked defense with the return of their two veteran leaders. Reserve outside linebackers Chris Carter and Jason Worilds will go back to bench roles after combining for just one sack and one pressure in three games.  Even without the two defensive leaders, the 1-2 Steelers have given up just 75 points.

Getting Mendenhall back should help jump-start their lethargic run game that has struggled in his absence averaging just 2.6 YPC on 65 carries between Isaac Redman, Jonathan Dwyer, and others.  Mendenhall is "just" nine months removed from his ACL tear, and should split time with both Redman and Dwyer at first but is the Steelers best running back.

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