The New York Giants have signed free agent running back Jonathan Stewart, the team has announced on Tuesday. Stewart, who spent his entire NFL career with the Carolina Panthers, will be welcomed by familiar faces in New York. The Giants head coach Mike Shula served as Panthers offensive coordinator, while the team’s general manager Dave Gettleman served in the same role with the Panthers for three years.
Welcome to Big Blue, Jonathan Stewart! #NYGiants sign the veteran RB.
DETAILS: https://t.co/G7KkA9l7xK pic.twitter.com/JRUXJkVI7z
— New York Giants (@Giants) March 14, 2018
“I am very pleased that we were able to make Jonathan a New York Football Giant,” – said Gettleman. “He is a quality runner with power and speed and brings a veteran, professional presence to our locker room. He’s a terrific addition for us at this time.“
Jonathan Stewart was released by the Carolina Panthers on February 28, after playing one of the worst seasons in his career. He managed 680 yards on 198 carries while averaging a career-low 3.4 yards per carry. He was ranked in the top three least productive NFL running backs that had at least 150 carries in 2017 season. While Stewart recently said that he still can be a productive running back in the league, the Panthers decided to move on from his contract, clearing $3.7 million in salary and giving their 2017 first round pick Christian McCaffrey more touches.
Jonathan Stewart was taken 13th overall in 2008 NFL Draft by Carolina Panthers. During his time with the team, he was named to Pro Bowl once (2015) while setting numerous franchise records including being the Panthers’ all-time leading rusher with 7,318 rushing yards.
