The Buffalo Bills announced the signing of free agent running back Walter Mendenhall.

Mendenhall, who began his college career alongside his brother (Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall) at Illinois, transferred to Illinois State in 2008 after he had his scholarship revoked by Illinois head coach Ron Zook once Rashard left for the NFL. During his one season at Illinois State, Mendenhall ran for 796 yards and 11 touchdowns on 126 carries.

Mendenhall entered the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles, who signed him as a free agent after he went unselected in the 2009 NFL Draft. Released by the Eagles last June, the 6-0, 227-pound running back remained a free agent until he was signed by the Indianapolis Colts midway through the 2009 pre-season.

In two pre-season games, Mendenhall carried the ball twice for 21 yards before being released as part of their cut-down to a 53-man roster.