Ron Rivera: 'DeAngelo Williams is our number one back'

Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera has revealed that DeAngelo Williams will continue to be his side's starting running back, despite the return from injury of Jonathan Stewart.

Williams has rushed for 434 yards this season on 106 carries at an average of 4.1 yards an attempt and will continue, despite the return of Stewart from the physically unable to perform list.

"We've got a guy right now that has established himself as our premiere back," Rivera told reporters.

"DeAngelo has earned that right to continue to be that guy and he will continue to be that guy."

The Panthers face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in week eight of the season.