Panthers lock up Jonathan Stewart with long-term deal

Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart signed a five-year deal worth $36 million on Saturday. (Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

The Carolina Panthers will be enjoying their backfield tandem of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart for years to come.

Stewart and the Panthers agreed to a five-year deal worth $36.5 million,  including $22.5 million guaranteed.

"We are thrilled to be able to extend Jonathan for five additional years," Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said in a statement. "He is a perfect fit for our organization. He is a playmaker who can make the difference in games and we have seen the impact he and DeAngelo Williams have had on our team."

Last year, Williams signed a five-year, $43 million deal with $21 million guaranteed.