Even since John Fox arrived in Carolina, the Panthers have always relied on a split backfield, meaning two running backs carrying the load instead of one.
That's one of the reasons DeAngelo Williams is not angry over the team's decision to draft Jonathan Stewart 13th overall.
While you might think Williams would be a little bitter over the decision -- especially since he looked like he was the obvious starter after the release of DeShaun Foster -- he's not.
"I told Jonathan that I was excited to have him here and I really am," Williams said Friday as players arrived at Wofford College for the start of training camp. "Truth be known, I'm ecstatic to have him here along with the other running backs. That's more reps for everybody and it helps make the team better."
Williams and Stewart may be competing for the starting spot this summer, but they seem to be forming a good relationship off the field. A huge wrestling fan, Williams said he took Stewart to a WWE event this summer and the former first-round draft picks got to know each other a little better.
"When I came in here for minicamp, we connected really well then," Stewart said. "And the similarities we have, the things we like to do away from the field are right on point -- playing video games, wrestling; he likes paintballing. I've never done it, but it's something I could see myself getting into."
Williams, entering his third season, admits there's a chance Stewart will wind up starting and he's come to grips with that.
"The opportunity is there whether I'm the starter or the backup," Williams said. "I've prepared myself for both so there's no disappointment if Stewart comes in and starts or not.
"The biggest thing is getting him in here and getting him ready to go as far as things that I can help him with. ... Blocking defensive ends and tackles and linebackers in the National Football League is stuff that I can help him with."
Williams figures he will get his fair share of carries regardless of whether or not he starts.
"In Carolina, (sometimes) the starter gets 12 carries and (the) backup gets 15 carries, so does it really matter who starts?" Williams said.
CAMP CALENDAR: The Panthers will host Fan Appreciation Day at Bank of America Stadium on Aug. 2. They will break camp Aug. 13. Keeping with coach John Fox tradition, they will not scrimmage any other teams.
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