Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith (89) celebrates with running back Jonathan Stewart (28) and quarterback Cam Newton (1) after Smith's touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Richard Lipski)
associated press Seattle’s Alan Branch (99) celebrates after recovering a Carolina fumble as Carolina’s Jonathan Stewart (28) walks off during the fourth quarter of a game in Charlotte, N.C., last Sunday. The Patriots visit Seattle on Sunday in a matchup of the NFL’s top offense against the Seahawks’ No. 1-ranked defense.
FILE - In this Aug. 26, 2012, file phot0, Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart (28) holds his foot after getting hurt on a play during the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the New York Jets in East Rutherford, N.J. Panthers coach Ron Rivera says he's optimistic running back Jonathan Stewart will play Sunday in the season opener at Tampa Bay. Stewart sprained his right ankle in the team's third preseason game Aug, 26 and hasn't practice since. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File)
