Fantasy football owners have always have always had a tough time deciding which running back to draft out of the Carolina backfield.  Jonathan Stewart and Deangelo Williams have made up the Panthers’ 1A/1B backfield combination for the past five seasons.  Unfortunately for Stewart that picture will clear up a little more.  

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Stewart will begin the 2013 season on the PUP list which will force him to miss at least the first six weeks of the season.

After going to see a foot specialist today, #Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart (ankle) will start the season on PUP list, I'm told. Out 6 games.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 27, 2013

 Stewart only ran for 336 yards and one touchdown in 2012; both career lows.  He was forced to miss the final five games due to an ankle injury which led to offseason surgery according to Steve Reed AP Sports.  While it is unfortunate for Stewart to miss the first six weeks of the season he remains optimistic:

"I can spend all of my energy being disappointed or I can spend all of my energy getting ready for week six," Stewart said.

Fortunately the Panthers have a lot of depth at running back with Mike Tolbert and rookie Kenjon Barner expected to help lighten the load that Williams will inherit.  



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