1,000 is not a true measuring stick for a RB anymore. 1,000 yards works out to 62.5 yards per game, certainly not a milestone number. Today's top backs aim for 1,600 yards, not 1,000. In his best season, 2010, Mendenhall was 7th in the league in rushing yards and a YPC below 4. In his second best season he was 14th with 1,108 yards - but a better YPC.
Mendenhall has shown himself to be an NFL running back, but I can't say that he has distinguished himself. Maybe the OL, maybe not, but I've had at least as much frustration as happiness with the running game while he has been the #1.
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