The Carolina Panthers are coming into the season with high expectations for quarterback Cam Newton and the team in general after finishing 6-3 down the stretch after a 1-6 start and something that could be a big issue for the team is the health of running back Jonathan Stewart.

According to ESPN.com, Stewart is dealing with recovering from surgery on both ankle and head coach Ron Rivera said that he was not sure when he could return. Stewart has missed all three preseason games for the team and Rivera said that there is a chance that he could be put on the PUP list, which would keep him out for the first six weeks of the season.

DeAngelo Williams and Kenjon Barner are much better fantasy options for the team and they have received the most reps in practice with the first team offense. Stewart looks like he will miss time this season whether he hits the PUP lost or not and that makes Williams more valuable. Cam Newton gets plenty of attention and having a solid running game could open things up for him.

Stewart has dealt with injury issues over his career after missing seven games last season and previously he played in 71 of 73 games and now Mike Tolbert could end up getting carries as well this season. Stewart has had toe issues since being drafted in 2008 and now he likely will be sidelined again.

"At this point anything is an option," Rivera said following Tuesday's practice. "What you're hoping is you can get him on the football field and we'll see once the doctor gets a chance to look at him."