Stewart open to Panthers drafting a new running back
Despite inking running back Jonathan Stewart to a one-year extension through the 2018 season, it appears likely the Carolina Panthers will look to draft his successor this year - possibly with their first-round pick - as the likes of Leonard Fournette and Dalvin Cook should be available at No. 8 overall.
Some players would be opposed to their team drafting their replacement, but Stewart said he'll welcome any rookie with "open arms."
"I mean, it's a good thing," Stewart said, according to Max Henson of the team's official site. "You always want fresh legs. Fresh legs mean a lot, especially in the fourth quarter. Having somebody potentially come in here … there are a lot of good running backs in this draft class, a lot of talent. Definitely open arms to get somebody in here that wants to win and understands that. We're better as a fist than we are as an open hand."
Stewart has been an effective runner for the Panthers over the past few seasons, and racked up 1,813 yards and 15 touchdowns across the last two years. However, he only averaged 3.8 yards per carry in 2016, and Carolina desperately needs to add a dynamic element to its ground game to ease the workload on quarterback Cam Newton.
Even if the Panthers wait until the later rounds to add a new runner, Stewart will likely be in a fight to keep his starting job - an opportunity he relishes.
"When you compete, you're getting better every day," Stewart said. "You're building the mindset of winning every day. The winning mindset starts in the locker room.
"I'm not satisfied by any means. Last year was disappointing. We just have to get back to the mindset of winning, and it's really about the little things."
- With h/t to Pro Football Talk