The Steelers sent running back Rashard Mendenhall home Thursday because of an illness, putting into question how much he will be able to play Sunday against the visiting Browns.
Mendenhall has started the past two games for the injured Willie Parker (turf toe) and rushed for 242 yards and three touchdowns.
If the illness is a lingering one and limits Mendenhall in the 1 p.m. game, the Steelers will probably be able to lean on Parker.
Parker was a full participant in drills again yesterday.
Said offensive coordinator Bruce Arians: "He's looked real good in practice."
Arians said if both Parker and Mendenhall are close to full strength Sunday, it will be a game-time decision as to how the Steelers use them in the backfield.