Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart has sustained what the team believes is a torn MCL, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Stewart left in the second half of Sunday Night Football against the New Orleans Saints, and initially it was reported he suffered a "contusion," before later reports emerge it was more serious. Off-season ankle surgery limited Stewart this season, appearing in six games and rushing for a total of 180 yards.
The injury is a devastating blow to the 2008 first round pick, and it's unclear whether he will remain with the organization long term. Stewart is in the second year of a six year contract signed in 2012, and restructured the contract earlier this year to have a more cap-friendly number in the outset.
Four reliable seasons have been derailed by recent injuries, with Stewart missing 17 total games in two years. He remains not only an effective change of pace running back, but a beloved teammate. If Thomas Davis can return from injury anyone can, and we can hope he finds a way to bounce back.