The Carolina Panthers have expressed interest in free agent running back Mike Tolbert. Tolbert played with the Chargers sine 2008 and he has finally hit the open market. Tolbert would be a perfect third-down complement to DeAngelo Williams, if he were to join forces with the Panthers.
If Tolbert signed with Carolina, it would create for a crowded backfield. The Panthers currently have Williams, Jonathan Steward and Mike Goodson. One of the three would have to go if Tolbert joined the roster.
The easy choice would be Goodson, but that may not be what actually happens. Head coach Rob Rivera and offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski are familiar with Tolbert from their days together in San Diego, so they would presumably want Tolbert to have a larger role in their offense.
In order to get Tolbert that playing time, Stewart would likely be placed on the trading block. ESPN’s Pat Yasinskas shares the belief, originally brought up by the Charlotte Observer, that Stewart could be used as trade bait if Tolbert joins the team. If Stewart is traded, the beginning asking price could be a second-round pick.
Teams around the NFL that are in need of a running back should hope that the Panthers sign Tolbert and Stewart becomes available.
To stay up to date on the latest from NFL Spin Zone, become a fan on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.