The Carolina Panthers used a first-round draft pick on talented running back Jonathan Stewart in 2008, but the emergence of DeAngelo Williams as one of the best ball carriers in the league had the rookie playing second fiddle to the three-year veteran. Stewart's role as the backup says more, however, about the job Williams did rather than any shortcomings in Stewart's game.
Despite being hampered by minor injuries throughout much of the season, Stewart put together a very productive rookie season considering his secondary role. For the year, Stewart posted 836 yards (4.5 YPC) on the ground and scored 10 touchdowns.
Much of the credit for the Panthers' potent ground attack, of course, should go to an offensive line that played outstanding in 2008.