Panthers' Stewart could miss the whole season

The Carolina Panthers already know they have lost running back Jonathan Stewart for at least the first five games of the season.

The was made a certainty when they placed him on the reserve in-season PUP list on Tuesday in order to get to the 75-player roster limit. Stewart, who had off-season ankle surgery, will miss the first five games (the Panthers' bye week will prevent him from missing six) of hte year for sure.

But the Charlotte Observer speculates in a report that Stewart might not be ready to go when he is eligible to return Oct. 20 against the St. Louis Rams.

If that is the case, then DeAngelo Williams will have to carry the load for the Panthers more so than first expected. Behind him, the depth is spotty in Carolina, which could mean that quarterback Cam Newton might lead the team in rushing once again. And having your starting quarterback as your leading rusher usually isn't a recipe for season-long success.

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Terry McCormick covers the Titans for TitanInsider.com</a>

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