In a move that isn’t terribly surprising, the Panthers have elected to part ways with the 10-year veteran. The move was first made public by Jourdan Rodrigue of the Charlotte Observer.
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And the news has been confirmed by the Panthers’ Twitter account.
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The move is likely based on financials as much as it is performance. Stewart could probably be an effective short yard back at this point, but with a cap hit of more than $5 million in 2018, his roster spot could not be justified by the organization.
Christian McCaffrey will certainly see more touches in the running game, but it is the Panthers way to platoon backs to keep them healthy and fresh. Right now, the only other backs on the roster are Fozzy Whitaker and Cameron Artis-Payne. So, look for the Panthers to address the position later in free agency, or in the latter half of the draft.
History would say that a big, bruising running back is needed to replace Stewart, but with the offense promising to evolve in recent years, don’t expect the Panthers to target a specific type of back this spring. Finding the best player available given the amount of resources the Panthers want to spend on the position is a more analytical approach.
[TWEET]968881956762071040[/TWEET]
And the news has been confirmed by the Panthers’ Twitter account.
[TWEET]968883849747865600[/TWEET]
The move is likely based on financials as much as it is performance. Stewart could probably be an effective short yard back at this point, but with a cap hit of more than $5 million in 2018, his roster spot could not be justified by the organization.
Christian McCaffrey will certainly see more touches in the running game, but it is the Panthers way to platoon backs to keep them healthy and fresh. Right now, the only other backs on the roster are Fozzy Whitaker and Cameron Artis-Payne. So, look for the Panthers to address the position later in free agency, or in the latter half of the draft.
History would say that a big, bruising running back is needed to replace Stewart, but with the offense promising to evolve in recent years, don’t expect the Panthers to target a specific type of back this spring. Finding the best player available given the amount of resources the Panthers want to spend on the position is a more analytical approach.
