Ex-Chargers running back Mike Tolbert has agreed to terms on a four-year deal with the Panthers, a league source said Monday.

Tolbert carried the ball 121 times for 490 yards with eight touchdowns in 2011, adding 433 yards and two more TDs as a receiver.

Tolbert’s agent Joel Turner said his client could have made $1.1 million more to stay in San Diego.

“He felt it was a better fit in Carolina,” Turner said.

I wouldn’t project Tolbert’s signing as an immediate indication the Panthers will trade RB Jonathan Stewart. There could be some unique RB packages in mind, and Tolbert also brings a lot of productivity on special teams. I also could see some packages of QB Cam Newton, RB DeAngelo Williams, Stewart and Tolbert all on field at once.

Follow Jason La Canfora on Twitter @JasonLaCanfora.

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