"I can't believe what I think I heard the other day. Asked on TribLive Radio about making a comeback with the Steelers, ex-running back Willie Parker replied, "There's definitely a possibility ... when this lockout is over, that's going to be my first priority - talking with the Steelers operation.''

Then, Parker added faster than he used to hit the hole, "Me and Coach T (Mike Tomlin), we're pretty cool. That's how it's supposed to be ... Never burn bridges in case you want to go back.''

Parker is dreaming.

Contrary to what he believes, burned bridges or not, he doesn't fit in the Steelers' plans.

With friends like Tomlin, who needs enemies?

When Tomlin took over in 2007, he vowed to run Parker until his wheels fell off. True to his word, Parker ranked among the NFL leaders in carries when he suffered a broken leg in the 15th game that season.

Parker was never the same.

In their very next draft, the Steelers selected Rashard Mendenhall to replace Parker, who held on for two more seasons before he was phased out.

The odds of Parker, 30, returning to the Steelers this season range between slim and none.

Parker couldn't catch on with Washington last season. Asked about the brief time he spent there, Parker said on another radio show that the Redskins "don't care about football.''

So much for not burning bridges.

I think it's great that Parker wants to play for the Steelers again. However, the feeling has to be mutual. It isn't.

If it was, the Steelers wouldn't have let Parker get away only to now consider bringing him back for old time's sake.

The Steelers already have enough 30-and-older players. It's essential that they begin developing young talent.

Parker enjoyed some great years with the Steelers. He made two Pro Bowls and bolted for a 75-yard touchdown run in Super Bowl XLV, the longest run in Super Bowl history."