Updated

While the Carolina Panthers played the final three games of the season without starting running back Jonathan Stewart, it seems that there's some good news on the horizon. With another week off before Carolina plays their divisional playoff game, Stewart says he expects to play in the postseason opener for the Panthers.

Via Jonathan Jones of The Charlotte Observer:

While the Panthers have seen Cameron Artis-Payne do a solid job in Stewart's absence, it's obvious that Carolina would like to have their workhorse back. Artis-Payne totaled 33 carries for 152 yards and his first career NFL touchdown since Stewart has been sidelined.