The Facts: HC Ron Rivera told reporters at the NFL's owners meeting that Artis-Payne "will most certainly get that opportunity" to replace Jonathan Stewart as the Panthers' power back.
Diehards Line:
The Panthers have Christian McCaffrey, last year's first-round pick, Fozzy Whitaker and Artis-Payne on the roster at running back. Though he dressed for 13 games last season, the most of his career, Artis-Payne had just 18 carries for 95 yards and a touchdown last season and has seen his opportunities decrease over his three-year career. "I've been working hard all offseason; I'm ready for the opportunity," Artis-Payne recently said. "I feel like I've been ready but we'll see how it plays out. ... I think I can be one of the better backs in this league, just need an opportunity." The draft may determine how great the opportunity is. We'll be watching for more.