NFL roster cuts: Carolina Panthers release running back Jonathan Stewart

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.

And the news has been confirmed by the Panthers’ Twitter account.

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 Panther way to platoon backs to keep them healthy and fresh. Right now, the only other backs on the roster are…