The Panthers star receiver says he’ll be ready for the Panthers game against the 49ers despite a recent knee injury.
Stewart, Rogers out, Smith in for CAR vs. SF

Bob Donnan-USA TODAY SportsStewart missed the first seven games of the regular season after recovering from ankle surgeries, and after playing in six games, tore his MCL and has not yet returned. In those six games, Stewart received 48 carries for 180 yards, ranking second among the team’s running backs with 3.8 yards per carry. He was listed a questionable on the final injury report.
Carolina will have an important piece available, as Steve Smith will return after missing the regular season finale. The veteran has caught 64 passes for 745 yards and four touchdowns this season.
Read Article >Panthers’ Smith suffers setback

Streeter LeckaThe Panthers receiver practiced on Wednesday in full pads, and though his reps were limited, he felt good based on his comments to the media. He joked after practice that his sprained knee was at 71 percent, which explains his reference to that number on Thursday.
• SB Nation’s 2014 NFL playoff coverage and brackets
Read Article >Steve Smith uncertain to play vs. 49ers

Streeter LeckaThe latest diagnosis is less bullish than the statement Smith made on his personal Instagram account Sunday night, in which the 34-year-old receiver said “playoffs here I come.” He noted he was running without pain for the first time since sustaining the injury.
• SB Nation’s 2014 NFL playoff coverage and brackets
Read Article >Steve Smith says he’s ready for playoffs

Streeter Lecka